LOUIE Sibley hopes playing in his preferred midfield role will bring out the best in him at Oxford United.

The 22-year-old joined the U’s last week, arriving from Derby County on a free transfer after turning down a new deal with the Rams.

Sibley was used as a left back or left wing back at times for the Rams last season, but has been promised a midfield slot by United head coach Des Buckingham.

For Sibley, it was a tough call to leave Pride Park, having been with the Rams since joining the youth set-up at Under-8 level.

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“It was a big decision to leave Derby. I came through the academy there, so it meant a lot to me, but as soon as I knew Oxford were interested, and then walking around the building, it felt right,” said Sibley.

“I spoke to the manager, and I knew Shorty [Craig Short, first team coach] before, and everything just felt perfect.

“When you’ve got people chasing you, and trying to get you in the building, it’s always a good feeling.

“It was a no-brainer. I had a gut feeling and it was a big decision, but hopefully it can be worth it.

“It’s now down to me to perform and I’ve got to deliver on the pitch. I’m eager to do that, I’m eager to impress.”

He added: “Last season, I played more at left wing back and left back. I spoke to the manager and he prefers me in the midfield role, so that’s good to hear.

“Personally, I feel like I’m more involved in the game. I can create chances and my main threat is driving with the ball, so hopefully I can play that position.

“I feel like in them pockets, is when you get the best out of me, so being in and around that position, driving with the ball, hopefully getting shots off from the edge of the box, and just being involved in the game, is where I feel I’m at my best.”

Although he prefers playing in midfield, Sibley sees his versatility as a positive.

He said: “It’s a good thing. Wherever the manager plays me, I’ll always give 100 per cent and that’s what I’ve always been like.

“If I have to do a job anywhere else, I’m sure I will, but hopefully it’s in midfield.”

Sibley boasts 67 appearances at Sky Bet Championship level, and with 80 games in League One, he is well-placed to note the differences between the divisions.

He said: “In League One, it’s very physical and there are a lot of second balls. You play against teams that sit off quite a bit.

“League One is totally different to the Championship. You’re playing against better players, who are quicker and stronger than you.

“It’s down for me and all the players to adapt to that, and keep working hard every day.”