Cox unfazed by Oxford United switch (From The Oxford Times)

Cox unfazed by Oxford United switch

9:00am Saturday 21st July 2012 in Sport

The “unreal atmosphere” in Oxford United ’s derby win against Swindon Town played a role in Lee Cox joining the club from their rivals on loan.

The 22-year-old midfielder signed a deal yesterday which will keep him with the U’s until January.

Cox came on as a substitute in United’ 2-0 win against Swindon in March and admitted it made such an impact that there was no hesitation in joining Chris Wilder ’s side.

He said: “I heard a few days ago Oxford were interested and I jumped at the chance to come here because I know what such a good side they are.

“I came on in the second half and witnessed the unreal atmosphere. The way Oxford played stuck in my mind and was a big part of why I came here because it was tremendous.

“I didn’t have one doubt coming here.”

The former Leicester City trainee, who can also play at right back, has no problems in switching between the two bitter rivals.

“It’s no issue to me, all I’m interested in is getting fit and getting games,” he said.

“I don’t care what the rivalry is, I’ll do my best for the team I’m playing for.”

Cox made his debut in United’s 1-1 draw with Didcot Town in a pre-season friendly last night.

Deane Smalley put the visitors in front on 77 minutes, but an error from goalkeeper Wayne Brown gifted an equaliser to Danilson Vincente late on.

U’s assistant manager Mickey Lewis praised the non-league side’s performance.

He said: “I thought Didcot did great and gave us a real good game.

“It was a good football match, we had to work hard against a really competitive team.

“Browny’s a very experienced goalkeeper and I’m sure he’ll be disappointed, but it’s not the end of the world – he’s big and brave enough to totally put it out of his mind.”