JAMES Golding has extended his deal with Oxford United – just seven weeks after agreeing a new contract.

In March, the 18-year-old defender signed a fresh deal after his first professional contract was set to expire this summer.

That contract was due to keep Golding at United for a further year, however the club has announced this afternoon that the teenager has now signed a ‘long-term’ deal.

READ AGAIN: James Golding agrees new deal with Oxford United

U’s head coach Liam Manning told the club website: “He is one for the future. He is a good athlete, good on the ball and reads danger really well.

“He’ll maybe be a little frustrated not to have had more opportunities this year but as Gatlin O’Donkor and Tyler Goodrham have shown, we do believe in giving young players the chance to show what they can do.

“James got into the team very young but he is still only 18 and I am sure he will be determined to make his mark in the first team next season.”

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Golding added: “I’m grateful to be given the opportunity and the longer contract gives me that little bit of security.

“Oxford have been great with me and the new manager has shown a lot of faith so I want to repay that.

“It’s up to me now to work hard over the summer, come back ready and push on again.”

Head of recruitment Ed Waldron said: “We have seen James progress with each season. He works so hard and physically we are seeing him get stronger all the time, and the work he is doing with the coaches on and off the field is commendable.

“He listens, wants to learn and he fully deserves this chance.”

Golding has made eight appearances for the club after making his debut against Tottenham Hotspur Under-21s in the Papa John’s Trophy back in October 2021.