Soccer

Gavin Whyte completes his move from Crusaders to Oxford United

Gavin Whyte is set for English league football with Oxford United
Gavin Whyte is set for English league football with Oxford United Gavin Whyte is set for English league football with Oxford United

GAVIN Whyte has got the move to England he has been seeking for some time, after Oxford United confirmed they had snapped up the winger last night.

Market man Whyte (22) has starred for Crusaders in the last two seasons, winning back-to-back Danske Bank Premiership titles and, after scoring 23 goals in 20 games, capturing the Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association Player of the Year award last season.

He was called up to Michael O’Neill’s full international squad in May after previously impressing with the U21s.

Earlier this week, Whyte was reported to have signed an enhanced contract with Crusaders, making him a full-time squad member at the Shore Road club. However, the lure of English league football has proved too tempting to resist, leading to a deal which is expected to net the Crues in the region of £100,000.

“I wanted to make sure it was the right move for me and, as soon as I found out Oxford were interested, I knew this was where I wanted to come,” said Whyte of the League One club.

“I have heard a lot of good things about both the manager and the club and now I am determined to work hard, keep progressing and be part of a really successful season.”