RYAN Ledson is prepared to risk his chances of playing at the Under 20 World Cup with England this summer to help Oxford United’s push for the Sky Bet League One play-offs.

The midfielder is in terrific form and came to the U’s rescue with a last-gasp goalline clearance on Tuesday night which secured a 1-0 win at Charlton Athletic.

It boosted the side’s chances of a charge towards the top-six, but he could miss two key fixtures next month.

Ledson is likely to receive a call-up to the national side as they step up preparations for the U-20 World Cup in Korea, which starts on May 20.

But the 19-year-old is keen to put club before country, despite knowing it could harm his chances of being selected for the tournament.

He said: “We have games in March leading up to that. I don’t know what’s going to go on yet.

“If it’s down to me I’d probably stay here, especially if we’re having a right good go at the play-offs.

“I don’t want to miss any games and if the manager needs me, I’ll stay.

“It’s something for the club and the FA to decide.”

No fixtures have been published yet, but the Football Association confirmed to the Oxford Mail yesterday the final details are expected to be ironed out by next week.

The games will take place during the international window, which is March 20-28.

It would see Ledson missing the home game against Bolton Wanderers on March 21, plus the visit to Northampton Town four days later.

U’s head coach Michael Appleton welcomed the teenager’s sentiment and intends to make contact with the FA to see if they can come to an arrangement.

He said: “I think that’s what he wants, but whether that’s possible I’m not sure.

“There might have to be a compromise between the FA and ourselves.

“Those conversations will take place over the next week or so, but ultimately we can’t stop him playing for his country – and we wouldn’t want to.”

The good news for United supporters is Appleton believes there is still plenty of room for Ledson, who signed from Everton in August, to improve.

“I think there’s more to come,” he said.

“I said even before he kicked a ball for us what I expected, that he would be our modern day Andy Whing.

“He’s so important to us.”