While Gary Waddock’s time in charge at Oxford United was brief, it produced one clear benefit which has helped the side this season.

Negotiations over the takeover which cost him his job last July meant United were severely hampered in the transfer market.

The head coach clinched just one signing, Danny Hylton, with whom he had worked at Aldershot.

He was not around long enough to enjoy the benefits, but Waddock has taken pleasure from the way the forward has performed this season in bagging 15 goals.

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“I’m delighted for Danny,” he said.

“The one player I was able to bring in has been very successful for the club.

“I know all the reasons now why I wasn’t able to bring other players in, which I’d worked hard on.

“But I’m pleased for Danny to get the goals and do as well as he has done.”

Should Hylton score against a Portsmouth side coached by Waddock tomorrow, it would equal his best goalscoring return for a season.

It does not surprise the Pompey assistant manager.

“No, because I’ve worked with him before.

“He’s matured in terms of playing at a higher level as well and I knew what he’d bring to the club.

“I knew the supporters would like the way he plays and on top of that he’s scored a number of very important goals.

“I think they’re very pleased that they’ve got him on board.”