OXFORD United last night parted company with midfielder Joe Burnell, who left the club by mutual consent.

The 28-year-old former Bristol City, Wycombe and Northampton midfielder made 21 starts for the club, scoring once, after being signed by Darren Patterson last summer.

However, Burnell was unable to find a regular place under new boss Chris Wilder and spent the latter stages of the season on trial at Exeter.

It is understood he is in talks with the League One side about a deal.

“I've enjoyed my time at the club and really hope they win promotion,” Burnell told United’s website.

“The chairman and manager have turned things around and they have treated me very professionally.

“Things didn't work out for me at Oxford, but there's a new challenge out there and I wish the club the best of luck for the future.”

Meanwhile, United fans are being given the chance to win a place in the official first-team photograph for next season through the new 12th Man initiative.

The scheme was launched yesterday, with an endorsement from U’s chairman Kelvin Thomas.

Fans can buy tickets for £5 each to enter a draw which will be held on the pitch at the Kassam Stadium at the club’s Open Day on Saturday, July 11.

The winner of the raffle will meet the players, and will appear alongside the squad in the photo call as the fans’ represensative.

Money raised will go into the 12th Man fund, which has been set up to boost the club’s playing budget and will be administered by a small committee of two fans’ representatives, chairman Thomas and boss Wilder.

Said spokesman Tim Rosser: “The 12th Man is for every United fan, whether or not you are a member of any fans’ group.”

Thomas added: “When I was first approached, I was very impressed by the thought process and the level of detail put into it.

“I think it is a great idea and just shows once again what great fans this club has. We are happy to support the initiative and will help the fans in any way.”

l OXFORD United’s Blue Square Premier fixtures are out today. They will be available at oxfordmail.co.uk from 10am.

l THE Peterborough Evening Telegraph report that winger Alfie Potter is on the brink of joining Oxford on a season-long loan.