Oxford United can confirm that defender Chris Cadden has left the club after Columbus Crew sent the paperwork through this morning to recall him from his loan.

Chris had an outstanding first half of the season and Head Coach Karl Robinson made no secret that he would have liked the Scottish international to stay for longer.

“He’s not just a very good player, he is also an outstanding young man who we have loved having here. I know he has enjoyed himself too and we thank him for his efforts. We did all we could to keep him; we made a good offer to buy him but it fell short of Columbus’s valuation of a million pounds. Personally, I think he has been badly advised to go and play in America at this stage of his career and his agent isn’t necessarily thinking of the player, but that is out of our hands and we move on.

“Sam Long has been in outstanding form and we will look to bring a right-back in who will push Sam and give us competition in that position.”

Chris told us

“I have loved my time at Oxford. It’s a brilliant club and I want to thank the Gaffer, the players and staff and especially the fans who have been unbelievable ever since I arrived. I’m looking forward to my new adventure but I want to wish Oxford the very best for the future; the fans deserve success and I believe they have the right people to lead them to that this season.”

The club can also confirm that winger Oussama Zamouri has left the club at the end of his short-term deal.

Oussama made one senior appearance, away at Crawley in the Leasing.com Trophy. We thank Oussama for his time with us and wish him well for the future.