Ben Woodburn joins Oxford United on loan from Liverpool
Woodburn joined Oxford on a season-long loan deal [Image: Lewis Mitchell]
Wales youngster Ben Woodburn has joined Oxford United as he searches for first-team football.
Woodburn joins Oxford United on a season-long loan, his second loan spell away from Liverpool.
The 19-year-old was part of Liverpool’s tour to the United States but he won’t be involved in the Community Shield match with Manchester City this week.
Wales teammate Harry Wilson is involved though in their Evian training camp, despite speculation linking him away from Anfield.
Ten-time Wales capped international Woodburn said to OUFC.co.uk:
“I spoke to Karl and he has done well with previous younger players in the past.
“Obviously I know Cam Brannagan, so I think it is a good fit for me in my career at this moment in time. I think it’s a stepping stone that I need to push on. It’s a great league, it’s a tough league and I’ve just got to show what I can do in these games and hopefully show my quality.”
Woodburn’s new manager Karl Robinson said:
“Ben is a talented lad who we are excited to bring into the building for the season.
“He has a lot of experience for his age at Liverpool and with the Welsh national team so we are absolutely delighted to bring in a player of his quality and are looking forward to being a part of his development.”
Woodburn was on target for Wales in March, scoring in a friendly win over Trinidad & Tobago.
He looks to be a replacement for the outgoing Gavin Whyte, who has joined Cardiff City.
Just two years ago, Woodburn became the youngest Liverpool scorer after a goal against Leeds United in the Carabao Cup. In 2017, Woodburn signed a long-term deal with the club which will see him stay with Liverpool for the next three years.
A loan move to Sheffield United followed but he made just seven appearances for the Blades. His loan was cut short and he was sent back to Liverpool to play in their Under-23s.
This pre-season, Woodburn has 166 minutes of action with Liverpool in their pre-season friendlies.
(Featured Image: Lewis Mitchell)
