ANY hope Oxford United had of extending Jake Forster-Caskey’s loan now looks remote after Gus Poyet signalled his intention to bring the teenager back to Brighton & Hove Albion.

The 18-year-old has been a big hit since joining the U’s in the summer.

He has made 17 starts in all competitions so far, scoring three goals, and his fast start to the campaign helped offset the loss of Peter Leven to injury.

Earlier this week, United manager Chris Wilder said the club would consider whether to attempt an extension.

But the decision appears to have been taken out of their hands.

Yesterday Seagulls boss Gus Poyet told BBC Radio Sussex the aim was to bring the talented midfielder back to play in the Championship.

He said: “We will get him back in January. At the moment that is the idea.

“I am sure he is going to be a different person. When Jake comes back, if he is better than the other midfielders, he will (play). I’ve got no doubt.”

The Uruguayan believed the stay with United had been beneficial for Forster-Caskey’s development.

He added: “As soon as you play 20-plus games in any professional division in England, you grow up a lot. “I’m sure he is going to be a better player.”