New Trio For Oxford City

Midfielder Zac McEachran has returned to Marsh Farm from Evo-Stik League Premier side Banbury United for an undisclosed fee.

The 22-year-old is a graduate of the Oxford City youth development programme where he soon became a regular for Oxford City Nomads.

Then manager Mike Ford thrust McEachran into the spotlight when giving him a debut in the National League North as a 17-year-old.

He has spent the past two years with Banbury and has recently spent time at the Jamie Vardy Academy.

Jones said: “He is a very talented young player who we feel will fit well into our squad, we want to see skilful, creative players at the club and Zac possesses the ability to go past defenders and has a good vision to play clever passes, I am looking forward to working with him."

Another young hungry player making a return to the club is striker Horatio Hirst, who joins on a six-month loan spell from Sky Bet Championship side Sheffield United.

Hirst was a member of City’s youth side who went on a memorable FA Youth Cup run to the third round, knocking out Peterborough United along the way.

The youngster notched 51 goals that season.

Upon signing for Sheffield United he was fast tracked into the under-23 set-up, impressing many with his attitude and application last season.

This deal will allow Hirst to continue his development by playing National League South football whilst continuing to study for his A levels.

Jones has admired Hirst having watched him blossom the youth side: “I am a big fan of Horatio’s movement, work rate and goal scoring ability.

“This loan deal will be a good option for us, as it allows Horatio to experience competitive senior football but it will also allow him to continue with his education outside of football, which is very important to him.”

The third player returning to the club is midfield enforcer Mo Fofana (pictured).

Fofana initially joined the club in November 2014 and became a huge hit with supporters` due to his strong combative style of play.

Several key performances caught the eye of National League side Barrow AFC for whom he signed for ahead of the 2015/16 campaign.

A large squad at the Cumbrian outfit saw Fofana’s chances limited and he re-joined City for a brief loan spell in November 2015

“I am very pleased to have Mo back at Marsh Lane after a couple of seasons away” said Jones. “He is a proven National League player who brings both physicality and defensive qualities to our midfield area. Mo has a great attitude and masses of experience which will prove invaluable to us throughout the season, I am sure the supporters, as I am, will be pleased to see Mo back in the blue and white hoops”.