Kelvin Thomas believes the arrival of promotion-winner Lewis Chalmers can give Oxford United’s squad another lift.

The U’s chairman was delighted to complete the signing of the Aldershot man on loan for the rest of the season.

And he is hopeful that the arrival of the six-foot central midfielder, who won the league two years’ ago, can prove a big help.

As predicted in Saturday’s Oxford Mail, fellow midfielder Lee Fowler has left the club.

“This is a very important time for the football club,” Thomas told United’s website.

“We have kept a very tight squad all season, and while others have squads of 25-30 plus, we have always been in and around the 20-21 mark.

“With Lee Fowler moving on and us picking up injuries this week, it is a good time to strengthen and find cover, and it also keeps our squad number tight.

“This group of players seem to have the bit between their teeth now and they have shown they are prepared to work hard. I have been very impressed with the togetherness and desire that is here right now.

“To be able to add a player like Lewis at this stage of the season to our squad is great, as Lewis has been there and seen what we expect to see in this last set of games.

“It is going right to the wire and we have to ensure that we have a squad that can compete in what are all going to be big games.”

Chalmers, a former Manchester City youth team player, started his professional career at Altrincham and went on to make 73 appearances for the Cheshire outfit, scoring six times.

His performances earned a move to Aldershot in June 2007 where he became an important figure in the Shots’ Conference and FA Trophy-winning squad, making 99 appearances scoring four goals.

Chalmers admitted he has heard nothing but good things about the club, and boss Chris Wilder.

“I have been really impressed with what Chris Wilder is building here,” he said.

“I know six or seven of the lads already and they have all told me the same thing: that the manager will get the best out of you here, and you will want to run through walls for him.

“It's a big club and this is a big opportunity so I can't wait to be part of the squad here.”

l UNITED, who were without a game at the weekend, saw their lead at the top of the Blue Square Premier cut to just a point when Stevenage beat Crawley 2-0.

The U’s face Hayes & Yeading tomorrow.