CALLUM O’Dowda’s next destination could be the Premier League – if he stays at Oxford United and makes an impact this season, according to Michael Appleton.

The U’s have already lost one key player this week, with Kemar Roofe moving to Leeds United for a club record £3m.

O’Dowda is the only other United man who has prompted multiple enquiries this summer, following a persistent link with Derby County in January.

The winger, from Kidlington, scored ten goals in the promotion-winning campaign last season and made his senior international debut for Republic of Ireland in May.

Appleton knows Roofe’s big move could lead to “mixed emotions” for the winger.

But the U’s boss pointed to Dele Alli, who moved to Tottenham after coming through at MK Dons, as an example of what could happen when a young player impresses in League One.

The United head coach said: “I’m sure the player has mixed emotions at the minute and that’s only natural.

“I’ve been a player myself and I can understand those feelings.

“But I think over a period of time the realisation will be he now has an opportunity to play for his hometown club in a higher league against better players.

“I think you’ve only got to look at what happened to Dele Alli.

“You never know, if you prove yourself in a higher league the next stop might not be the Championship, it might be the Premier League.”

But as with Roofe, United are pragmatic enough to do a deal if the price is right.

The winger’s valuation is “nowhere near” Roofe’s, but no-one has come close this summer.

Appleton said: “We have a valuation and as far as we’re concerned if they’re not prepared to get anywhere near that, then he’s an Oxford United player.

“He will be a great asset for us next year. He’s still got two years of his contract left and we’d be delighted to keep him around even longer.”