KEMAR Roofe made it clear his sole aim for the season was to win promotion with Oxford United after he put a Premier League link to one side in style.

The 22-year-old added to his collection of stunning goals this season by whipping an 85th-minute free-kick into the top corner to earn a 1-0 win at Dagenham & Redbridge.

It came a day after reports in the north east suggested he had been watched by Newcastle United earlier this month.

Roofe admitted he was aware of the rumour, but did not want to let it put him off focusing on the job in hand.

He said: “I was told about it on Friday, it’s just speculation and that happens in football. I just wanted to prepare for the game.

“Of course (it’s flattering). I must be doing something right, but as long as we win games and get promoted at the end of the season that’s all that matters.”

If Roofe continues his stellar form it will not be the last story linking him with a club in a higher division.

Stretching back to the end of last season, the forward has netted 17 goals in his last 27 appearances – a record which will not go unnoticed.

U’s boss Michael Appleton spoke last week about the club having no interest in letting players go.

But given the eye-catching form of several players, the head coach has been expecting speculation.

He said: “I would be disappointed if we didn’t, because if not, it would mean we had some bang average players.

“The fact we’ve had three or four players now who are consistently playing well for a long period is good for the club.”

Appleton added: “It doesn’t bother us. (Kemar)’s in a good place at the minute and he’s enjoying his football, getting better and better.”

Roofe’s inspired set piece proved the difference on a difficult afternoon where Dagenham’s performance belied their position at the foot of the table.

It strengthened United’s position in Sky Bet League Two, taking advantage of leaders Plymouth Argyle’s slip-up to move within two points of the summit.

Roofe said: “These are the kind of games that get you promoted.

“They are tough places to come and the conditions aren’t nice.

“I’m just happy to help the team out with goals and as long as we get the three points that’s all that matters.

“I’m not sure why Dagenham are that low, because that was one of our hardest games.”