Oxford seal permanent Wright deal

Last updated : 30 June 2010 By BBC Sport

Oxford United have completed the free transfer signing of Brighton centre-back Jake Wright on a three-year deal after a successful loan spell.The U's signed the 24-year-old on loan in December and he impressed at the back, making 23 appearances as Oxford won promotion from Blue Square Premier.

Wright only joined Brighton from Crawley last summer but only made eight appearances before joining Oxford.

He also had spells with Bradford and Halifax, under U's boss Chris Wilder.

"After I spent some time here and got on so well with the players I knew I wanted to be at this club," Wright told BBC Oxford.

A lot of my family were there, the atmosphere was amazing and I will never forget it

Jake Wright on Oxford's play-off final win

"Obviously Oxford getting promoted has made it even easier."

Wright was involved in the play-off final win over York City at Wembley which helped reclaim Football League status for United.

"It was an amazing experience, especially as we had 33,000 fans there backing us. A lot of my family were there, the atmosphere was amazing and I will never forget it," he said.

Wright's signing was helped by the 12th Man initiative run by Oxford fans and spokesman Rob Newton said: "Jake's signing is a great step forward for the club. His arrival will be hugely popular with the fans and the 12th Man is delighted to have played a part in funding it.

"Once again, thanks to every fan who has contributed to the fund or got involved. We hope the fund will continue to grow this year and will play its part in signing players of this calibre."

Source: BBC Sport

Source: BBC Sport