Des Buckingham is determined to retain Oxford United’s play-off final hero, Josh Murphy.
The U’s boss vowed to do everything possible to keep the winger at the Kassam Stadium for their return to the Championship next season. Buckingham revealed that efforts to secure Murphy’s future began immediately after the final whistle of their Wembley victory against Bolton on Saturday. While Oxford celebrated lifting the play-off final trophy, Buckingham was already planning for the club’s exciting future.
Murphy, who scored both goals in the win against Bolton and is nearing the end of his current contract, has been linked with moves to Pompey, Derby, QPR, Hull, and Sunderland. This interest means Oxford faces a challenge in convincing the winger to extend his two-year stay.
The Championship newcomers received a boost when Murphy expressed a desire to remain with Oxford. Buckingham is now set to fend off any potential suitors by making a strong effort to keep him.
When asked by SportsBoom.com if Murphy would stay, the Oxford boss said, “I hope so! I told him that while we were lifting the trophy. We will do as much as we possibly can to keep Josh. We want good people at this club. He is a very good footballer and fits our style. If we can keep him and he wants to stay, we will do everything we can, and it won’t be for lack of trying.”
Pompey is also looking to strengthen their wide areas this summer as they prepare for life in the Championship. Abu Kamara has returned to Norwich after an impressive loan spell at Fratton Park, while Gavin Whyte and Anthony Scully have not met expectations following their moves from Cardiff and Wigan, respectively.
Paddy Lane will remain a key player for Pompey in the Championship, having scored 12 goals and provided seven assists in their League One title-winning season.
Murphy has scored 10 goals and recorded eight assists in 62 appearances for Oxford since his move from Cardiff in 2022.
GET MORE NEWS HERE