MARK Sykes has completed his move to Oxford United from Glenavon in Northern Ireland.

The midfielder, who joins for an undisclosed fee, put pen to paper on a contract until summer 2021 after undergoing a medical at the U’s training ground this morning.

Sykes has made 21 appearances for Glenavon this season so arrives match fit and available to make his debut in Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup third round tie at Brentford.

The 21-year-old believed he was all set for a move to Port Vale after the Sky Bet League Two side had a bid accepted, before a late U-turn at the weekend.

He said: “I knew Oxford were interested a few months back but nothing really came off.

“Port Vale made a bid and I was always thinking that’s where I was going until Sunday morning, when I got a phone call.

“Karl had spoken to my manager Gary Hamilton and it took ten or 15 minutes for the deal to happen.

“I was more than happy to come here, especially playing a league above where I was going to sign.

“I’ve always wanted to be a professional footballer and I’ve never really had any other aspirations.

“Now I’ve signed I couldn’t be happier.”

Sykes is the second player to make the switch from the Danske Bank Premiership in six months.

Winger Gavin Whyte has been a big hit since crossing the Irish Sea and the pair were teammates with Northern Ireland’s under 21 side.

United head coach Karl Robinson knows it may take time to make the adjustment, but hopes Sykes can adapt as quickly as Whyte.

He said: “He’s got a lot of growing and physical development still to do, but he’s extremely talented and a lovely footballer.

“He’ll find the game quicker, as Gavin did. I asked for patience with Gavin and I’ll do the same with Sykesy.

“You didn’t need to have too much with Gavin and hopefully it’s the same outcome.”