Jamie Cook has enjoyed a colourful footballing career, from scoring his first goal at Manchester City for Oxford United to appearing at Old Trafford in the FA Cup fifth round during a successful spell with Crawley Town.

But the 34-year-old former Witney United and current Oxford City midfielder now has his sights set on becoming a professional golfer when he finally hangs up his boots at the end of this season.

“I’m turning pro at golf this year, so that’s something I’m looking forward to,” said Cook.

“For seven or eight years it’s been in the back of my mind, but I’ve not really given it a proper go.

“This is the year that I’m going to do it and maybe get on the PGA qualifying course.

“We’ll have to see what happens.”

Cook, who had two spells at Oxford United, where he started his footballing career, had previously announced his intention to try professional golf.

It followed the frontman’s release from Stevenage Borough in 2005.

However, his professional football career was resurrected in 2006 when he signed for the now defunct Witney United who were then playing in the Hellenic League Premier Division.

He scored more than 30 goals for the west Oxfordshire club before making a move to Rushden & Diamonds in January 2007.

He later moved to Crawley, where he had two spells, leaving his golfing ambitions on hold.

Football remains his priority until the end of this season and he is confident he can help City retain their place in Skrill North.

“It’s been a tough season,” he said.

“I’ve been in and out of the team, which is a bit frustrating.

“But we’ve started playing better recently and we can move up the table.

“We’re only halfway through the season, so it’s not all doom and gloom.”