ALFIE Potter has become the latest key player to commit himself to Oxford United.

The forward has signed a new two-year deal, with the club retaining an option to extend it a further 12 months until the end of the 2015-16 campaign.

He follows Andy Whing and young players such as Max Crocombe and Tyrone Marsh to agree longer term deals, forming what the club hope will be a settled core.

The 24-year-old Potter began to deliver more consistent performances last season, finishing as the U’s third highest scorer.

His haul of 11 goals was more than the previous three seasons put together.

There has been some speculation this summer about interest from other clubs, but Potter is delighted to stay.

He said: “Ever since I came through the door four years ago, I have loved being part of this club and I’m really looking forward to being part of it again as we try and take Oxford United up to League One and beyond.

“The fans have been fantastic with me and I can’t wait to get playing in front of them again.

“I did OK last year but want to keep improving and growing as a player.” Potter arrived four years ago on loan from Peterborough and went on to help United win promotion.

It was the winger’s 90th-minute strike which sealed a 3-1 victory over York City in the Blue Square Premier play-off final at Wembley.

The move quickly became permanent and he is now one of United’s longest serving players, making 148 appearances since joining in 2009.

Only Ryan Clarke, Jake Wright and James Constable currently have more games under their belts for the club.

U’s boss Chris Wilder said: “I brought Alfie in as one of my first signings and he has progressed season on season.

“Hopefully, he will continue to improve and that will benefit the team and the club over the next two or three years.

“It is another indication that the senior players have real confidence in the way that Oxford United is going forward as a club.

“Alfie is a big favourite with the fans but also with the players and the staff and we are absolutely delighted that he has signed.”

The new deal means Potter will take a keen interest in the League Two fixtures, which are released at 9am today.