Cumming joins Oxford United on permanent deal

Jamie Cumming was in goal for Oxford's League One play-off final win at Wembley last month

Oxford United have signed Chelsea goalkeeper Jamie Cumming on a permanent deal.

The 24-year-old played 23 times for the U's while on loan during the second half of last season, helping the club win the League One play-offs.

Oxford have not disclosed whether they have paid a fee for the former England youth international, who was still under contract at Chelsea, or the length of his deal.

“Jamie showed real improvement over his loan spell last season, and he was a very important figure in our successful play-off campaign," head coach Des Buckingham told the club website.

“He produced some big moments for us, particularly in the semi-final over Peterborough United, and we are excited to have him back at the club.

“Jamie already has great experience for his age with almost 200 senior appearances, and we have faith in him that he can continue to develop and be an important player over this time.”

Cumming never made a first team appearance for Chelsea, but did have loan spells at Stevenage, Gillingham and Milton Keynes Dons over the past four years.

"It was a joy to be part of last season’s success and I want to achieve great things again," said Cumming.

“I’m coming back to a place where I feel comfortable and it’s a club that is ambitious and wants to go in the right direction.

"I learned a lot from my time here and I was desperate for this opportunity to step up and play in the Championship.

“I now need to prove to everyone here that I can play at this level and I’m very confident in doing that."