Cameron Brannagan and Tyler Goodrham sign new Oxford United contracts

The players are two of United’s most prized assets, both in terms of their importance to the team, but also their financial value.

Promotion from Sky Bet League One clearly helps with keeping hold of talent, and there has been plenty of reported interest in both Brannagan and Goodrham in recent seasons.

By putting themselves on the same level as the clubs that have been rumoured to be chasing the duo, the U’s eliminated one potential reason for any of their stars to leave.

READ ALSO: Tyler Goodrham commits long-term future to Oxford United

READ ALSO: Cameron Brannagan signs new long-term contract with U’s

However, United now find themselves battling against some real heavyweights, not just in player retention, but also attracting talent to the club.

So, to have two of their shiniest jewels agree new deals a good couple of weeks before a ball is kicked in the Championship season, that sends a message to those who might’ve been circling.

Brannagan and Goodrham excelled for the U’s last season, and their contributions across the campaign were instrumental in promotion being secured.

Firmly regarded as the heartbeat of the United team, Brannagan will no doubt once again be a pivotal player for the U’s this season.

He shone in the number six position last time out, with Goodrham and Ruben Rodrigues pressing high in advance of him, yet his role is set to be more flexible this season.

Summer signing Will Vaulks will likely be the first choice in the deepest midfield slot, while fellow arrivals Idris El Mizouni and Louie Sibley will provide further competition to an eye-catching midfield.

It’s an excellent problem for United head coach Des Buckingham to have.

As for Brannagan individually, a new deal as a Championship player is the just reward for the loyalty he has shown, particularly amid the tests given to him when Blackpool pushed hard to sign him across three windows from the summer of 2021 onwards.

Cameron Brannagan celebrates his penalty against Stevenage last season (Image: Mike Allen)

Goodrham though is almost certainly the most valuable asset to the U’s.

At just 20, he plays with a maturity beyond his years.

His versality and willingness to learn and improve was on full display last season, when Buckingham brought him in from the wing and converted him into a midfielder.

Goodrham’s sharpness and tenaciousness in his pressing, his vision, and his ability to shoot from distance all stood out at the back end of last season.

A player as gifted and young as he is will no doubt have scouts from big clubs watching.

What the new contract will do though is protect United and allow them to call the shots if bids materialise in the future.

It’s a pleasure to watch Brannagan and Goodrham week in and week out, and satisfying now that their long-term futures have been sorted.