JAKE Wright reached a milestone on Tuesday night with his 100th Oxford United start and the captain immediately set himself the goal of making another century.
The 26-year-old only joined the U’s on loan from Brighton in January 2010, but has been a virtual ever-present in the line-up since.
Of the existing squad just Ryan Clarke, James Constable and Damian Batt have accumulated more starts for United.
Players are often indifferent about such records, but it was significant for Wright, who had been aware of the mark for several weeks.
He said: “I kept it quiet, but it’s a nice thing for me to get it.
“It’s the first time I’ve got 100 games for a club, hopefully I can keep going and obviously get another 100.”
The U’s helped kick-start Wright’s career after falling down the pecking order shortly after joining Brighton & Hove Albion.
An injury and a managerial change saw the centre back make just six starts for the Seagulls.
The unsettled spell means Wright has been grateful for the opportunity to make an impact.
“I went to Brighton and it didn’t really work out, the gaffer brought me here and there’s a great set of lads, we’ve got a really good team spirit so it’s a brilliant club to be at,” he said.
“When I heard Oxford were interested I jumped at the chance, they were second in the Conference at the time and I knew there was a chance of playing at Wembley.
“It worked out perfectly and I made the right decision.
“There’s been no looking back, I just want to keep playing for Oxford and climb the leagues with them.
“We’ve got nine games left and if we play well I’m sure we’ll be near the top.
“I’m really settled, my family’s down here, my little boy’s at school and likes it, so they’ve made me feel really welcome.”
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