Whing eyes key run-in role at Oxford United (From The Oxford Times)

Whing eyes key run-in role at Oxford United

9:10am Friday 15th March 2013 in Sport By David Pritchard, Chief Sports Reporter covering Oxford United. Follow us on twitter: @oxfordmailoufc. Call me on 01865 425458

ANDY Whing is focused on finishing the season fit and in form to help strengthen his case for a new contract at Oxford United.

The midfielder is a key player for Chris Wilder’s men, but he has missed two big chunks of the season due to groin and ankle injuries.

Whing, who returned to fitness last month, has started the last three games and tomorrow will take on Chesterfield, where he played 11 games on loan three seasons ago.

The 28-year-old is one of 16 first-team players at United whose contract expires this summer, but insists keeping a place in the starting line-up and helping the team win games are the only things on his mind.

He said: “If I’m doing that then people are thinking about me, if I’m stuck on the treatment table it’s a lot harder for me to go and say ‘I want a new contract’.

“I’m not thinking about that, I just want to be playing as many games as I can and hopefully it will take care of itself.”

Whing endured a difficult start to his United career after joining from Leyton Orient in 2011, but his wholehearted style has seen him become a firm favourite with supporters.

Given a choice, he is keen to pen a new deal with the club.

“Of course, I've loved my time here,” he said. “I’m not far from home, which is perfect for me and my family.

“I’m more than happy here and to be fair I’ve had a good time here when I’ve been out on the pitch.”