Cameron Brannagan wants Oxford United to look at Ipswich Town example

The Tractor Boys finished second in Sky Bet League One during the 2022/23 campaign, and backed that up with another second-placed finish in the Championship this season, securing a place in the Premier League.

United will be in the second tier next season, after their 2-0 win against Bolton Wanderers in the League One play-off final at Wembley.

READ ALSO: U’s boss on how ready the club is for playing in the Championship

U’s midfielder Brannagan said: “Look at Ipswich. They’re a big inspiration in my eyes. The way they handled the promotion and went into the Championship, and they’re now a Premiership team.

“If that’s not an inspiration to believe in yourself, and that you can go and do great things. I can’t wait.”

Speaking after the play-off final, he added: “I can’t explain this feeling, I’ve never felt like this in my football career. That moment at full-time means so much to me and the club, players, staff and fans. That was a special moment.

“Just before Exeter, that was the moment where I was like ‘we are going to go up’. I saw it in my dream.

“This moment, I can’t really put into words how I’m feeling.

“I’ve been here for a long time, and that was always my aim from day dot, so to say that now I am a Championship player, and these boys are, it hasn’t sunk in yet, but these are moments that I’ll cherish forever.”

“This time last year, I got told to find another club, and now I’ve just got the club promoted.”

Josh Murphy maintained belief in himself and his ability, despite a rough period which included being told to find a new club this time last year #oufc https://t.co/45QWQzivxW

— Liam Rice (@OxMailLiamRice) May 19, 2024

Brannagan was forced off with injury 20 minutes into the second half, with Marcus McGuane coming on in his place.

Although he was distraught at coming off, Brannagan knew it was the right thing for the team.

He said: “I’ve never been so heartbroken because I wanted to see the game through, but I had full faith in this bunch of lads.

“I wanted to push myself, but I couldn’t probably give the full 100 per cent in me, and I knew whoever was coming on would.

“That’s the big thing about this squad. We’re all together as a unit and as a team.”

Giving a word on the United supporters at Wembley, Brannagan said: “I appreciate the support they give us, and they have all season, so that’s just the icing on the cake for us. For those fans, it was a special moment for every single one of them.”