GATLIN O’Donkor has signed a new ‘long-term deal’ with Oxford United.

The 18-year-old striker, who turns 19 in October, signed his first professional contract last summer, putting pen to paper on a two-year deal with the option of a further 12 months.

O’Donkor has scored two goals in 35 Sky Bet League One games, although 26 of those appearances have come as a substitute.

Both his senior goals came at Grenoble Road last season, before the turn of the year, in the 1-1 draw against Fleetwood Town and 3-1 victory over Charlton Athletic.

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U’s head coach Liam Manning said: “I’m really pleased, it probably should’ve been done earlier than it has been.

“I think he’s still got a long way to go in terms of establishing himself as a starting League One striker.

“He did some really good things and he’s got huge potential. The biggest bit now is understanding what turns that potential into consistent form and performances, and ultimately keeps you in the team and gets you in the team.

“It was a tough time for the team last season and he had an opportunity at the back end of last season with a shortage of experienced players in the position.

“What he did in that opportunity was show that he’s got ability and show that he’s got that potential.

“The challenge for Gats, as well as us, is driving to make sure he’s a consistent performer.”

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O’Donkor told the United club website: “It’s a nice feeling knowing that the gaffer and the club have you in their plans.

“I am enjoying my football this season and the team is going really well so it was a really easy decision to sign a longer contract.

“The club is ambitious and so am I. All I can do now is work hard and try to repay the faith they have shown in me.”

Head of recruitment Ed Waldron added: “We feel there is so much more to come from Gatlin so it’s good to get the deal finalised.

“The fans love his work rate and his physicality but he has scored goals at every level.

“It’s another endorsement for the academy, who now have Gatlin and Tyler Goodrham involved with the first team and several other players pushing in the younger age groups.

“People talk about the new signings but we are also developing really exciting players from within and Gatlin is a fantastic example of that.” 

The teenage striker follows experienced goalkeeper Simon Eastwood in committing to the club.

The U’s announced yesterday that Eastwood had signed a new deal which will tie him to United until at least the summer of 2025. His previous contract was due to expire next summer.

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