THE return to fitness of Josh Murphy is a more than welcome boost for Oxford United.

It’s taken far longer than anyone would’ve liked but if now clear of the injuries which have plagued the first months of his U’s career, then fans should be in for a treat.

This is a player who’s competed at the highest level, and cost Cardiff City £11 million just four years ago.

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United have lacked in various areas this season, not least in front of goal.

The U’s are the joint-lowest scorers in Sky Bet League One this campaign, alongside bottom side Morecambe.

It’s an alarming statistic, especially bearing in mind the swashbuckling football supporters have become accustomed to in recent years.

And this is where Murphy comes in.

There’s an argument he’s better than the third tier, and indeed was on trial at Championship side Reading prior to his move to United.

Fellow second tier club Huddersfield Town were also believed to be in talks with him.

His trickery and ability on the ball should carve out plenty of opportunities for the U’s.

Whether it be getting to the byline, cutting inside to shoot or winning free kicks, Murphy should vastly improve United’s goals for column.