CHAIRMAN Darryl Eales says Oxford United will have a clearer idea of Callum O’Dowda’s future when they return home from their pre-season tour on Saturday.

The winger did not travel to Spain with the U’s squad after reporting an illness.

O’Dowda has been linked with a move away from Oxford – Bristol City the latest club to be reportedly interested in the 21-year-old – but Eales reiterated they do not want to sell.

“I'm a straightforward person and I don’t doubt anyone else’s motives – as far as I’m concerned, Callum O’Dowda is ill,” Eales said.

"When we get back at the weekend we'll find out where we are.

"I would absolutely prefer not to sell Callum, simply because we want to give ourselves the best chance possible to have a real go at League One next season.

"We've got momentum, ambition, belief and a great group of players, fantastic fans and I'd like Callum to be a part of it - I still hope he is."