Oxford United captain John Mousinho has signed a new one year deal with the club. The 34-year-old’s previous deal was due to expire today.
John Mousinho Signs New Deal at Oxford United
Important Experience
The defender has made 120 appearances since arriving from Burton Albion in 2017. The 34-year-old offers a wealth of experience to what is otherwise a very young Oxford squad.
That experience could be crucial when the U’s travel to Portsmouth this Friday in the first leg of the League One play-off semi-final.
Although Mousinho had plans to move into coaching, the defender is excited about another season on the pitch.
What Was Said
Speaking to the Oxford Mail, he said: “It gives me another year in football and takes me to 35. That’s incredible, I don’t really feel it but I’m delighted to sign.
“I came here three years ago and we had a tricky two years but this season has been absolutely brilliant. In all honesty, it’s where I’d like to be for the long term as well.
“I’ve talked to the club and everyone behind the scenes about staying beyond playing and there seems to be a lot of positive vibes.
“This was the first step to taking that and cements myself at a club I’ve really enjoyed being at, it’s local for me and it’s a great place to be.”
Managers Reaction
For manager Karl Robinson, finalising deal before the clubs trip to Portsmouth on Friday was crucial. The manager was also surprised just how well he had played over the course of the season, which included 33 appearances.
Robinson said: “For us having his personality in the building is incredible. It’s not always what you do on the pitch, it’s the experience you have and the way you speak to people.
“It’s great news to have him back for next season, we’ve been trying to get that done over the last few weeks.”
Other Contract News
Elsewhere, the club confirmed that striker Jamie Mackie and midfielder Liam Kelly will see out the rest of the season after signing short term deals.
Like Mousinho, Mackie’s contract expires today, but Robinson is hoping the veteran forward will stay on at the club.
As for Kelly, the club have reached an agreement with his parent club Feyenoord to extend his loan stay until the end of the season.
Having arrived in January, injuries have limited his game time, but the former Reading man is ready to go when the U’s face Pompey.
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