Oxford United have signed former Reading defender, Jordan Obita. The 26-year-old was released by the Royals in the summer and has signed a deal until the end of the season, with the option of an additional year.
Jordan Obita Joins Oxford United
Full-Back Joins Oxford Following Reading Release
Born in Oxford, Obita has had a successful career since joining Reading as a seven-year-old in 2001. He made over 150 appearances for the Royals after making his breakthrough in the senior side in 2010 and won promotion to the Premier League in 2012.
Obita has been training with the U’s for the past couple of weeks to regain his fitness. The left-back has missed two full seasons with a recurring knee injury but managed 26 appearances for the Royals last season.
The left-back penned a deal until the end of the season but has the option of a further year, with injury issues a concern.
What Was Said
Speaking to the clubs’ official website, U’s boss Karl Robinson said: “To pick up someone who has made over 200 appearances, mostly at a higher level is great for us and gives up options and real competition at left-back and on the left of midfield.
“People will know he has had injury problems in the past, that’s why we took our time and gave him a chance to prove he is fit and can stand up to what will be a very demanding schedule.
“But he has slotted in very well, he is another local lad from Oxford who obviously knows the culture of the city and the club and he now gets the chance to show us what he can do.”
Obita added: “First of all I want to thank the Gaffer for giving me this opportunity. I’ve been impressed by everything I have seen over the last few weeks and can’t wait to get started.
“I’ve worked hard not just over the last couple of weeks but all summer as well. This is a good squad of players and all I want to do now is keep training as hard as I can and be part of a side that goes on a run and starts getting to where we know we should be in the table.”
Obita, who worked with U’s chairman Sumrith Thanakarnjanasuth from his time at Reading, spoke highly of the club.
“I grew up just around the corner and there’s always been something within me that I want to come and play for the club,” he added.
“I’ve known the chairman for four or five years now. He gave me loads of phone calls over the last couple of months, showing his eagerness to bring me in.
“That’s what I want right now, people who want me and believe in me to try to progress and do well here, for myself and the club.”
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