LUKE McNally says he will look back fondly on his time at Oxford United.

The centre back has completed his move to Sky Bet Championship club Burnley for an undisclosed fee, signing a four-year deal.

McNally had never played in English football when he arrived from Irish Premiership side St Patrick’s Athletic in January 2021, aged 21.

FULL STORY: Luke McNally seals Championship move

And the defender paid tribute to U’s staff, players and fans for making him feel at home.

Speaking to the club’s official website, McNally said: “I want to thank everyone associated with Oxford because I have loved my time there.

“It was a big thing for me to move over and to be away from home for the first time but everyone looked after me and made me feel part of the club straight away.

"A lot of that comes from the gaffer, staff and players who have been brilliant with me, but I also want to thank the fans who have been unbelievable.

“I’m looking forward to being a Burnley player, that’s really exciting, but Oxford are in great shape as a football club and I am sure they are going to have an excellent season.”

McNally had to wait until August 2021 to make his debut and was in and out of the side in the first half of last season.

He became a regular from late January and made 35 appearances overall, as well as chipping in with some important goals.

His performances attracted the attention of several clubs, but Burnley – relegated from the Premier League last season – won the race, paying a fee reportedly in the region of £2million.

New Clarets manager Vincent Kompany, a distinguished centre back for Manchester City and Belgium during his playing career, is pleased to welcome McNally to Turf Moor.

He told local media: “Luke is a young player, he’s good on the ball, wins his challenges, and knows how to defend. We are delighted he is now a part of our squad.

“He has shown all the qualities we were looking for in a central defender, and we are looking forward to working with Luke.”