JACK Currie is ready to fill in wherever down the left-hand side of Oxford United’s defence, whether that be at full back or wing back.
Primarily used as a left back at AFC Wimbledon, the 22-year-old has experience though of playing a bit higher up when the Dons switched to a system with three centre halves.
United settled on a 4-3-3 formation under Des Buckingham last season, a system which saw the U’s win promotion via the Sky Bet League One play-offs.
Flexibility in the Championship is likely to be important though, especially in games where United might be trying to see out a victory.
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For Currie, although it’s left back where he feels most confident, playing as a wing back is something he’s happy to do.
He said: “A couple of times in my career, we’ve gone through periods playing in a back three or a back five.
“I’ve usually played as a left back or a left wing back, so I know both the roles extremely well if needed or called upon, however at the end of the day, I’m a defender, so defending well is my main priority and it’s something I’m quite confident at.
“Going forward is another kettle of fish, but it’s something that I’m definitely working on.”
Asked about his main attributes, Currie responded: “I’d say I’m very energetic, up and down, and that I play for the badge. I’m hard-working and what you see is what you get.
“I’ll run through a brick wall for the right cause, and the gaffer and everyone at Oxford seem like the right cause.”
He added: “The most important thing is playing Championship football after being in League Two for a couple of years.
“Des and all the coaching staff have given me a plan and an idea of where we’re going to go, and it’s really exciting to be a part of it.”
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Currie’s breakthrough campaign came during the 2022/23 season, as he made 48 appearances for the Dons, scoring once, in a 2-0 win at home to Gillingham.
During the most recent campaign, Currie played 45 times, and again found the scoresheet once, as the Dons won 3-1 at Walsall.
His arrival earlier this month means the U’s now have three senior left backs, with Joe Bennett and Greg Leigh also contracted to the club.
In June, Bennett agreed a deal for the forthcoming season, while as it stands, it’s possible Leigh could play higher up the pitch for United.
The Jamaica international has featured as a winger both off the bench and from the start of games, and with the U’s still looking to find a replacement on the left wing for Josh Murphy, there is the potential to use Leigh in a more advanced role if required.
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