HERBIE Kane says he turned down interest from Sky Bet Championship clubs to sign for Oxford United.

The 22-year-old midfielder has joined the U’s on a season-long loan from Championship outfit Barnsley.

A Liverpool academy product, Kane made a name himself during a loan spell at Doncaster Rovers during the 2018/19 season.

After another loan spell away from Anfield, at Hull City, Kane joined Barnsley on a permanent deal in October 2020, for £1.25m.

He joins the U’s after watching his new side beat Lincoln City 3-1 at the weekend.

“It happened quite quick, I managed to get to the game on Saturday and the lads played some good football,” said Kane.

“I enjoyed the way they move the ball around, attacking football, high press and for most of it, dominated the game.”

The midfielder said there was interest from Championship sides, but the style of football at United swayed him to join the club.

He said: “There was a few Championship teams that were interested but the way the gaffer plays and when I spoke to him, I was really impressed.

“I was with Cam when I was at Liverpool and I think the way the gaffer plays is quite similar to Liverpool.

“Hopefully I’ll be able to play a lot of football here and show everyone what I can do.

“I know this division and I’m looking to put my mark down and hopefully get Oxford promoted.

“Last season was frustrating for me as I didn’t play as much as I’d have wanted so this year I’m looking to play as much as I can.

“There’s a lot of games in this league but I think that’s good.”

Competition in the United midfield is already tough with different players offering various options.

Kane said he is happy to play in whichever role he is picked to.

He said: “I don’t mind too much where I play, I like getting on the ball and dropping deep but I also like to get in the box and score goals so I don’t mind where I play – I’ll do my best wherever I play.”

The new signing could make his U’s debut at Cambridge United in the Papa John’s Trophy tomorrow.

“These games are good to get minutes in you and being new, I get to play with the lads for the first time and if I’m involved tomorrow, I’ll be looking forward to it,” said Kane.