Marcus Browne rejoins Oxford United on loan from Middlesbrough

The 22-year-old forward spent last season with the U’s, impressing with nine goals in 44 appearances as a West Ham player.

Boss Karl Robinson was keen on making the move permanent, but lost out to Boro.

Browne though has started just five games in the Sky Bet Championship so far and was made available for loan.

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And having felt at home with United last season, they were the first club which came into his head.

He said: “When I spoke to the gaffer at Middlesbrough and got the nod to go out, I called my agent and said ‘speak to Robbo about going back to Oxford’.

“I’m excited. Even coming in today and seeing the lads it’s quite uplifting.

“Everyone at the club, including the fans, were really good to me last season.

“I’ve got nothing but good memories, so I’m happy to be back.

• Marcus Browne scores against Rochdale last season  Picture: David Fleming

“The gaffer (Robinson) put a lot of trust into me last season.

“It was my first time playing in league football and he played me all season. We’ve got a good relationship.

“I didn’t have any doubts or second thoughts about coming here.”

Browne adds pace to a squad which was boosted yesterday by pacy winger Nathan Holland.

The pair played together at West Ham, with Browne recommending United to Holland when the chance of a move emerged last month.

And Robinson is thrilled to have an extra attacking option.

He said: “When the availability came up seven days ago I made no bones about it, he’s one of the best players I’ve ever worked with.

“He gives me another option as a striker, he can play right wing and in midfield. He can play off the left, so can Nathan and Tariqe.

“The top speed at the club is ten metres per second, which is Sam Long and Dan Agyei.

“The average is 9.4 and Browney is 10.3. I’ve moaned enough to everyone that we have no pace.

“I think with Marcus and Nathan we’ve corrected that.”