Oxford's academy of 'massive' importance - Hackett

Tyler Goodrham is a product of Oxford United's academy

Oxford United first-team coach Chris Hackett says there is a "massive emphasis" at the club on developing young players through their academy.

Former U's winger Hackett himself came through Oxford's youth ranks - and one of his first coaching roles at the club was with the youth team.

He worked his way up to becoming manager of the Under-18s side before taking up a first-team coaching role in 2023.

"The academy is massive at Oxford," Hackett told BBC Sport.

"It's a one-club county so it gives us the benefit of being able to 'own' our county and make sure we get the best players from the region into our club.

"There's been a massive emphasis on developing young players and progressing them into the first team."

Two prime examples of academy products in the first team are forward Tyler Goodrham and full-back Sam Long.

The pair came through the academy at Oxford and have had a big impact at senior level.

Both played 90 minutes at Wembley in 2024 when Oxford beat Bolton to win the League One play-off final, and since then have been key members of both Des Buckingham and Gary Rowett's sides.

"At the moment if you look at Sam and Tyler, they are playing regularly for us and are a massive part of what we do," Hackett added.

"They show there is a pathway for those academy players to come through if they put in the work.

"Behind them we have a group of talented young players as well. It's exciting times for the academy."