Luke McNally has been labelled ‘a machine’ by his Oxford United team-mates.
The defender, 21, joined the League One side on a three-and-a-half year deal from St Patrick’s Athletic in January.
He has yet to make his first-team breakthrough but Rob Atkinson’s move to Bristol City this month has opened the door.
Oxford team-mate and fellow defender Sam Long said: “Because he has played men’s football, he’s comfortable in the environment.
“On the pitch, he’s an absolute machine. He’s so fast, he’s big, he’s strong.
“If he keeps on improving like he has done since he arrived, there’s no reason why he can’t do what Rob’s done.
“He’s so fast, it’s scary for the size he is. It’s a good string to his bow and hopefully he can do well in pre-season and impress.”
Long told This Is Oxfordshire: “He’s got a good attitude and he’ll listen to you, he’ll take information on board.”
