Defender Damian Batt, has as expected, put pen to paper on a two-year contract.

Batt, 24, who was originally signed until the end of the season, said: “It didn’t take me long to decide, because I have enjoyed my time since I came here in January.

“Chris has a good reputation as a manager and it was a great opportunity to come to a sleeping giant like Oxford where the fans are fantastic.

“My ambition is to play at the highest level possible and to get back into the league. If I can do that with Oxford then so much the better.”

Wilder added: “I’m delighted to get him. His attitude has been fantastic. He’s athletic and mobile and he’s willing to listen and learn.

“He will be a part of what we are trying to build here, not just this season, but in the future.”

Chairman Kelvin Thomas said: “Damian has done well since he came here. He’s at a good age and has excellent energy levels. He’s also very level-headed.”

Thomas said the club were pulling out all the stop to sign Constable on a long-term deal.

“We’re keen to sign him and I think clubs in this division and higher know that,” he said.

“We will do our best to sign him and are working on it.”