Ruben Rodrigues admits that he was questioned over his decision to join Oxford United but feels vindicated with the team sitting top of the table early on in the season.

The 26-year-old joined the U's on July 1 on what the U’s have described as a ‘long-term deal’.

Rodrigues scored 19 goals and bagged 15 assists, to help the Magpies secure promotion to Sky Bet League Two during the 2022/23 season.

He was offered a new contract by County, with his deal expiring that month, but a step up the football pyramid always seemed likely for the Portuguese forward.

United reportedly beat Championship side Cardiff City, plus League One rivals Barnsley and Derby County, to his signature.

He said: “A lot of people questioned my decision to come to Oxford. Of course, Notts County is a big team and I was loved and always going to play.

“I wanted another challenge, I have never played league football before. I know [United] finished low last season, it was always going to be a question of how well we do this season.

“I have no regrets since moment one. The players and staff have been brilliant with me and we are top of league one. “

On the U’s early season form, he said: “You always look forward to the next game, especially when you are top.

“Teams come knowing it is going to be a tough game for them so they are going to have to bring everything which makes us be on our toes.

“We know we have to deliver because know how good we are now. That always makes it better because playing well makes it fun for everyone, it’s nice winning games and buzz around here.

“It’s still the first five games, so of course we are happy but we haven’t done anything really, there are 41 games left.”

And on that elusive first goal, he added: “Of course I want a goal, I know as soon as it comes then more will follow.

“It is always the first one that is the waiting process. I know it will come because the good things take time.”