OXFORD United will make a sports psychologist available to players and coaching staff as part of their plans to build a successful campaign.

Chris Gooder is part of the team working for Professor Steve Peters, whose clients in the sporting world have included the likes of Olympic champion cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, snooker star Ronnie O’Sullivan and the England football team.

The renowned psychologist wrote The Chimp Paradox, which argues the key to top performances lies in understanding how your mind works.

Gooder, who has worked with Arsenal, Southampton and London Wasps for the Chimp Management firm, will be at United’s training ground once or twice a week throughout the campaign.

Boss Michael Appleton believes players are more receptive to the concept of sports psychology than during his own career.

“Back then there was an attitude of ‘shut up and get on with it’,” he said.

“It’s not for everyone and we won’t be forcing it on anyone at all, but Chris will be there if anyone wants to talk.

“It’s another voice and it’s all about finding those small percentages in different areas.”

Goalkeeper Sam Slocombe has read The Chimp Paradox and is one player who sees the value in such a move.

He said: “I do think they can be helpful.

“If you do it and it doesn’t work, what have you lost?

“The good thing about a sports psychologist is they are totally unbiased, it stays with them, so you know you can say it in confidence.

Oxford Mail:

  • Professor Steve Peters (left) worked with the England football team at last summer's World Cup

“I think it will help some people.

“You get different characters within squads and some thrive on confidence, so on the flip side of that if they’re low they are not playing well.

“If that helps them, why not?”

It is hoped Gooder will also be able to help the coaching staff as well.

Appleton said: “If I need to speak to the players or staff on certain things and it’s a little bit contentious then I might say to him ‘I’ve got this issue and I need to get it out, how would you approach it? Do I have to be heavy on people or do I need to take a step back?’

“Hopefully it will be part of what will be the difference going forward.”