Cameron Brannagan urges Oxford United to emulate Ipswich Town’s approach in tackling the second tier of English football next season.
The Tractor Boys secured second place in Sky Bet League One during the 2022/23 season and followed it up with another second-place finish in the Championship, earning a spot in the Premier League.
Oxford United will compete in the second tier next season after their 2-0 victory against Bolton Wanderers in the League One play-off final at Wembley. U’s midfielder Cameron Brannagan said, “Look at Ipswich. They’re a big inspiration in my eyes. The way they handled the promotion and went into the Championship, and they’re now a Premiership team.
“If that’s not an inspiration to believe in yourself, and that you can go and do great things. I can’t wait.”
Speaking after the play-off final, he added, “I can’t explain this feeling. I’ve never felt like this in my football career. That moment at full-time means so much to me and the club, players, staff, and fans. That was a special moment.
“Just before Exeter, that was the moment where I was like ‘we are going to go up’. I saw it in my dream. This moment, I can’t really put into words how I’m feeling.
“I’ve been here for a long time, and that was always my aim from day one. To say that now I am a Championship player, and these boys are too, it hasn’t sunk in yet. These are moments that I’ll cherish forever.”
“This time last year, I got told to find another club, and now I’ve just got the club promoted.”
Josh Murphy maintained belief in himself and his ability, despite a rough period which included being told to find a new club this time last year #oufc https://t.co/45QWQzivxW
— Liam Rice (@OxMailLiamRice) May 19, 2024
Brannagan was forced off with an injury 20 minutes into the second half, with Marcus McGuane taking his place. Although he was heartbroken to come off, Brannagan knew it was the right decision for the team.
“I’ve never been so heartbroken because I wanted to see the game through, but I had full faith in this bunch of lads. I wanted to push myself, but I couldn’t probably give the full 100 percent in me, and I knew whoever was coming on would.
“That’s the big thing about this squad. We’re all together as a unit and as a team.”
Regarding the United supporters at Wembley, Brannagan said, “I appreciate the support they give us, and they have all season. That’s just the icing on the cake for us. For those fans, it was a special moment for every single one of them.”