Oxford sign centre-back Helik from Huddersfield

Michal Helik has Championship experience with both Barnsley and Huddersfield

Experienced defender Michal Helik has joined Oxford from Huddersfield and could make his U's debut against Blackburn on Saturday.

The 29-year-old centre-back helped Barnsley to reach the Championship play-offs four years ago and also spent two seasons in the second tier with the Terriers.

Helik, who has won seven caps for Poland, becomes Oxford's fourth new arrival in the January window, following Ole Romeny, former Huddersfield team-mate Alex Matos and Tom Bradshaw.

"This is the right place for me because there is a drive to improve and that matches my ambition," said Helik.

"I am ready to fight for this badge and I want to achieve our goals together. I am still improving, and the best is yet to come from me."

Helik, who was named as Huddersfield's player of the season two years running, ended the 2023-24 campaign as their top scorer with nine goals despite relegation to League One.

U's boss Gary Rowett added: "Michał has been one of the most dominant defenders in the Championship over the last four years. It's fantastic to welcome a player of his pedigree into the group."

Oxford are undefeated in five games since Rowett succeeded Des Buckingham just before Christmas, having climbed to 17th place with a six-point cushion over the bottom three.