KYLE Vassell is hoping to end the season with a bang – by scoring goals and firing Oxford United to safety.

The 22-year-old joins the U’s on loan from Peterborough on a deal until the end of the season.

Vassell signed on a day that saw three other players leave the club.

Giorgio Rasulo was recalled by MK Dons and promptly signed for Aldershot, Armand Gnanduillet returned to Chesterfield, and Jeremy Balmy joined Oxford City.

Vassell, who was signed by Posh in November 2013 from Bishop’s Strotford, is relishing making his mark with United.

“The challenge at Oxford really appealed to me,” he said. “Hopefully I can get my smile back and help Oxford out at the same time.

  • Sport
    Latest Sport news

“I started the season well, had a little injury setback, but am determined to finish with a bang.”

Vassell, who is set to feature against Carlisle United tomorrow, is not concerned about the expectation at United, with a mis-firing front line desperate for goals.

“I don’t mind pressure, that’s just part of football,” he said.

Boss Michael Appleton was delighted with the signing, saying: “He has pace, good quality and will hopefully do very well for us.”

On the outgoing players, the U’s head coach added: “From Giorgio’s point of view, we were hoping that if we were in a safer position then we could have a look at someone who is going to be a very exciting prospect.

“In terms of Armand it just hasn’t really happened for him.”

But the question on the lips of United supporters after Vassell signed was whether the forward was related to former England and Aston Villa striker Darius.

“Apparently so, but I have never met him,” he replied.

UNITED'S Callum O'Dowda won his first Republic of Ireland Under 21 cap in last night's European Championship game against Andorra.