The Wales B and Wales Under 21 international, totally ignored by former boss David Kemp, who told him he was likely to be released this summer, was a revelation when caretaker manager Mike Ford threw him up front at Meadow Lane.

Ford said: "I thought Rob Folland was absolutely outstanding. What he gave us with his movement and running was enormous. I'm pleased because I took the gamble of throwing him in, but I'm more pleased for him than for anyone else.

"His attitude when he has been training with me has been first class and I think he deserves to stay at this football club.

"I've told him he should be offered a new contract, and that's what I'm telling the chairman."

Although United failed to avoid becoming one of only a handul of professional English clubs over the past decade to concede 100 goals in one season, Ford felt the displays of Jamie Brooks, Simon King, Phil Wilson and Jorden Holder gave cause for optimism.

He said: "There were a lot of good things again. We played very well for 20-25 minutes in the first half but then we stopped doing the things we should be doing, like moving the ball, passing the ball and closing people down

"But I think overall people can see the way forward for this club, which is with the good young players we have, and to try to get them playing the right way.

"The young players that were out there don't look overawed, and that's the way to go. If we can get a few experienced players around them then we have the nucleus of a good team.

"I could take all the credit for bringing in the young players but that wouldn't be fair. In some cases it has been forced upon me by circumstances.

"The players have enjoyed today, and they enjoyed last Tuesday night, I believe. To get the best out of young players, they have to be enjoying what they do.

"But we've got to make sure we keep the good young players we've got. Personally, I'm very excited about the future . . . it looks bright because of the new stadium, the young players at the club and the investment that's been promised in the team." Robertson going home OXFORD United fullback John Robertson is set to return to his native Scotland.

Robertson still has a year remaining on his contract, but has told the club he may need to be released early to return home because his wife is homesick.

He will make a final decision on his future in the next few days. United are expected to look sympathetically at his request.