JOSH Ruffels has today put pen-to-paper on a new long-term contract at Oxford United.

The midfielder, who turns 24 on Monday, is the club's longest-serving player.

He agreed a new deal only in February which tied him to United until the end of the 2018 season.

However, both boss Pep Clotet and chairman Darryl Eales have spoken recently about offering several players fresh terms, and Ruffels is the first to sign.

He made his 100th appearance for the U's this season and was delighted to commit to the club on a contract that runs until the the end of the 2019/20 season, with a further one-year option available.

“I’m really pleased to have sorted everything out," he said.

"I have had a fantastic time ever since I signed - with promotion, two games at Wembley and so many other great occasions as well.

"It’s my home-town club, everyone here is very progressive and ambitious and I am enjoying my football so it was an easy decision to sign.”

Clotet added: “Josh is an excellent player and a fantastic pro.

"He has a lot of experience for someone who is still only 23 and we are delighted that he sees his future as being part of what we hope to build here.”