Oxford United had another busy week with the arrival of a new defender and a loan departure, but it ended with another league defeat.
Read More: Three Talking Points as Oxford United Lose at Birmingham
Oxford United Weekly Round-Up: Defensive Reinforcement, Loan Departure and Birmingham Defeat
U’s ‘Battling It Out’ With QPR for Rangers Defender
On Tuesday, Pete O’Rourke claimed that Oxford and Championship rivals QPR were “battling it out” to sign Rangers defender, Ben Davies.
The 30-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Birmingham, joined the Scottish side in 2022.
The former Preston man also joined Liverpool in 2021 but failed to make an appearance for the Premier League outfit.
Snowden At the Double
Leo Snowden netted a brace for Oxford’s U21 side, who won 2-1 against Derby.
It was a first ever Central League game for the young U’s, who also handed first minutes to summer signing, Nik Prelec.
But it was Snowden who stole the show with two first-half goals, while Peter Kioso and Owen Dale weren’t involved in any capacity.
International Call-Up
On Thursday, summer signing Brodie Spencer was called up for the upcoming Northern Ireland World Cup qualifiers.
The 21-year-old, who has 13 caps for the Green and White Army, could be in contention to face Luxembourg and Germany.
Oxford United ‘Keeping an Eye’ on Hungarian Midfielder
Oxford are “keeping an eye” on ETO FC Györ midfielder, Rajmund Tóth, according to reports in Hungary.
However, the report claims that Dutch side Groningen are also keen on the 21-year-old, who is a Hungarian youth international.
Kioso Joins Former Club on Loan
On Friday, U’s defender Peter Kioso returned to his former club, Peterborough, on a season-long loan.
The 26-year-old, who joined Oxford last summer from Rotherham, has turned out 33 times for the U’s since their return to the second tier.
However, the DR Congo international is yet to feature for Gary Rowett’s side this season so a move away is good for all parties.
Davies Signs
Ahead of their trip to Birmingham, Oxford confirmed the signing of Rangers defender Ben Davies on a season-long loan.
Speaking after joining, Davies said: “I’m delighted to be here. As soon as I heard of the interest I was sold. I spoke to the head coach, and I got the feel that this is a football club which can take a step forward this year.
“I felt this is a great chance for me to play Championship football. I’m really grateful for the opportunity the club have given me, and I will do everything to have a strong season.
“I’ve played a lot of football, and I hope I can bring those experiences to the team. I’m really looking forward to getting started and helping the club achieve its ambitions.”
Head coach, Gary Rowett, said: “Ben is a very experienced and strong defender with a great ability to play forward.
“He has played at a very high level in extremely pressurised environments where he has demonstrated his qualities.
“We are delighted to welcome Ben to the club and feel he can be a significant addition to our group this season.”
Defeat in the Second City for Oxford United
Oxford ended the week with a 1-0 defeat at high-flyers Birmingham.
The U’s were on the back foot for much of the game but the only goal of the match came five minutes before the break.
Gary Rowett’s side were reduced to just a handful of chances, with Cameron Brannagan seeing a first-half effort tipped wide in what was the best chance.
It’s the first time since the 2018/19 season that Oxford have lost their opening three league games.
