Oxford speedway boss Nigel Wagstaff has added the impressive up and coming American youngster Ryan Fisher to his 2004 squad.

Fisher, who first impressed the Oxford management with a string of strong performances for his club and two excellent guest appearances for the Silver Machine last year, will benefit from appearing alongside fellow countryman Greg Hancock.

Wagstaff said: "The opportunity to ride with Greg and to have a year away from Coventry could both have a significant impact on this young man's future in the sport."

The Coventry asset found himself without a team place at Brandon this year after a major shake-up and will join Oxford on a loan deal. He is graded as a three-point rider and Wagstaff admits that it is a gamble.

The promoter said: "We have two young three-point riders in the team which could be seen by some as a gamble, but I am a firm believer in youth and feel it is a risk worth taking".

Fisher and new teammate Travis McGowan have had their fair share of skirmishes in the past, but things should improve now they are on the same side.

Wagstaff added: "They are both committed to what they do and are real

entertainers, which is a boost".

The Oxford team line-up is now nearly complete with five riders signed and only two to go - and more importantly, with only two points left to play with.

Monarch, who sponsored Todd Wiltshire before he retired and have been loyal supporters of Oxford speedway, have stepped in to back Fisher this year.

Meanwhile, the Silver Machine are not fancied to pull up any trees this year, judging by the bookmakers who give them only a 12 -1 chance of landing the title.