Darren Patterson has made 'a huge first signing of the summer' after Adam Murray agreed a new two-year contract with Oxford United.

The U's boss was desperate to keep the midfielder after a string of outstanding displays since signing from Macclesfield midway through last season.

And although Murray, 26, signed a one-and-a-half year contract, Patterson has taken advantage of a renegotiation clause in his contract to add an extra year to his deal.

"This is a massive signing for Oxford United," Patterson said.

"Although he signed a deal, because there was a renegotiation clause, plenty of League clubs were after him.

"We have worked very hard to agree a new deal, and because Adam enjoyed himself here, he was delighted to commit to us.

"He told me that he was desperate to stay and get Oxford United back into the Football League.

"When a player of his quality says that, you know that you have signed the right person."

Murray has been a virtual ever-present since joining on January 4, and proved key in United's super end-of-season run that saw them win nine of their final 11 games.

Patterson knows how important the first signing of the summer can be in sending out a signal to the fans, and believes that he has captured exactly the right man.

"Adam's attitude to matches, training and the club in general is first-class," he said.

"His performances have been consistently high and he is the type of person we need here.

"We have been in talks with various people, but we have taken our time to ensure we get the right ones - and we have done that with Adam."