OXFORD United players swapped their boots for books to go back to school.

Midfielders Alex Mowatt and Ryan Ledson and defender Dwight Tiendalli visited The Oxford Academy yesterday, to inspire students about how sport can change lives.

Their trip to the Littlemore secondary school was part of a national Day of Action staged by English Football League clubs across the UK.

United’s managing director, Niall McWilliams, who is also headteacher of the school, said: “It was fantastic and reinforced the positive effect a football club can have when it interacts with its community.

“An unexpected bonus was Dwight volunteering to come back regularly and act as a mentor to some of the pupils.”

EFL chairman Ian Lenagan said: “The day highlighted the special role the EFL has and our collective ability to make a positive and lasting impact.”

Players chatted to students and enjoyed a sports lesson.