MATTY Taylor has admitted his impressive form for Oxford United has surprised even himself.

The striker made it eight goals in ten U’s games with a brace in the 4-0 win at Southend United on Saturday.

Taylor endured a difficult start to his season-long loan from Bristol City, sustaining a groin injury in his second game against Bristol Rovers and taking five matches to find the net.

But since opening his account in the 6-0 thrashing of Lincoln City in September the 29-year-old’s record has surpassed even his own expectations.

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“It’s probably gone better (than I could have hoped),” he said.

“I’m obviously delighted to be so free-scoring at the minute.

“I could have had one on my debut and then in the Rovers game I got a strain on my groin, which wasn’t ideal.

“It wasn’t the best of starts, but since I’ve been back I’ve got myself fit and firing.

“It’s going really well, but it’s still only November so we’re not going to get carried away.

“We just need to keep ticking off the wins and keep racking the points up.”

Read also: Karl Robinson insists Oxford United were not at their best at Southend

Taylor’s form has made securing a permanent deal for the striker a priority for U’s boss Karl Robinson during the January transfer window.

Strikes including the winner at Rotherham United and a stoppage-time equaliser at Portsmouth have helped maintain the club’s unbeaten run, which currently stands at 15 games.

Those results have been extra special for Taylor, who came through the U’s youth ranks before being released ten years ago.

And the striker is fully aware of the significance of United’s recent success.

He said: “I can’t remember many Oxford sides I watched that even went seven or eight games unbeaten.

“It’s nice that it’s happening and, being from Oxford, it’s even sweeter that I’m actually involved in it as well.

“My family are all buzzing and they constantly get asked questions about how it’s going for me.

“People take a bit more interest when you’re playing for your hometown club.”