JAMES Golding is targeting first team football after signing his first professional contract with Oxford United.

The 17-year-old defender joined the U’s on a two-year scholarship in 2020, making his senior debut against Tottenham Hotspur in the Papa John’s Trophy in October.

Golding also enjoyed a loan spell at Banbury United earlier this season, before returning to act as cover for the U’s first team.

He was most recently on the bench for the win at Shrewsbury Town this month.

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After signing his deal with United, Golding said: “I am so proud and want to thank my family and all the coaches who have got me here, but I hope this is only the start.

“I have dreamed of being a footballer since I first got spotted doing keepy-ups at eight years old and now I have to make the most of my opportunity.

“I think the plan is to go out and play on loan for the rest of the season and then I will come back in pre-season and I hope start repaying the faith that everyone at the club has shown in me.” 

Golding has made a big impression on U’s academy manager Dan Harris, who said: “James fully deserves his opportunity and it’s a really proud moment for all of us to see him turn professional.

“He’s a very impressive young man, really disciplined and determined as well as being a terrific prospect on the pitch.

“The last two years have been a massive test for all of our players, in every age group, with training and matches affected by Covid, but James is a fantastic example of what you can achieve if you have the work ethic to match the natural ability.” 

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U’s boss Karl Robinson praised Andy Whing for his role in Golding’s development.

“He’s a tremendous talent and there’s so much more to come,” said Robinson

“We’re very harsh on our young players but he’s stood the test of that and I think he’s matured within the first team environment.

“From our point of view, we believe he’s got a tremendous future with the football club – we’re very happy he’s going to see this as his home for the next few years and he’s one we’re looking forward to working with.

“Whingy’s been brilliant for him and brilliant for us. Whingy is someone we really want to work with next year with the promotion they’re probably going to get.”

Robinson added: “James is a decent size, good with the ball at his feet and reads the game well.

“He is learning all the time and it has been a pleasure to see him develop over the last year or two from afar.

“Now we look forward to working with him closer up day-to day and hopefully playing our part in him continue to develop as a footballer.”