SAM Long remains in Oxford United’s long-term plans, according to head coach Michael Appleton.

The 19-year-old from Bicester joined Kidderminster Harriers on a youth loan yesterday as part of Chey Dunkley’s switch.

But Appleton has been impressed with Long’s progress this season and believes it will only be helped by a spell playing in the Vanarama Conference.

He said: “This is very clear, Sam Long has got a long future with Oxford United.

“He’s taken everything on board I want in terms of the way we play.

“I just think from his development it will be great for him to go in there and hopefully get a bit of game time under his belt at the level below.”

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