Oxford City’s latest signing, Finn Howell looks ahead to the clash with South Shields on Saturday in the Vanarama National League North.

The left-footed defender joined on loan from Solihull Moors earlier in the week after successful loans at Step 3 last season.

The 19-year-old is excited to appear for the Hoops and is keen to make a lasting first impression in front of the travelling support. He said: “I’m looking forward to it and hopefully I can get off to a good start, win the game and come home with three points.”

Signing players halfway through a season, gives the existing group of players a lift and Manager Ross Jenkins certainly sees it that way, he said: “Finn’s come into the group and added a freshness and energy, which is a really good thing.”

With a couple weeks break since the last fixture, it can be difficult getting back into a rhythm and Jenkins is certainly keen to build on the momentum gathered toward the end of last season.

Mood in the camp seems high and the young defender feels the side have benefitted from a break, he said: “Having a few weeks off can make you more prepared for the games and make you want to get out there more. So hopefully it will be a good thing for us.”

Finn’s first training session was on Thursday morning and he has fitted in well, he said: “The lads are all class, I’ve settled in well and I’m ready to play already and I’ve got to know them all already, so it’s been really good.



“I’ve not been told of an initiation, so hopefully we’re all good. They’re all really good lads, so it’s been easy settling in.”