NATHAN Holland has become Oxford United's first signing of the January transfer window.

The rapid winger, who favours the left flank, joins from West Ham United on loan for the rest of the season.

Holland completed the formalities this morning, before training with his new teammates for the first time.

The 21-year-old has been firmly on United's radar since playing against them in the Carabao Cup in September - and the 4-0 upset made a big impression.

He said: "All the players who took part in that game were very impressed with the way Oxford played in that game and the confidence they showed to play out from the back.

Also read: Oxford United eye fresh loan for George Thorne – if Derby County agree reduction

"That had a brilliant effect on me and maybe that’s a big reason why I’m back.

"Not all League One teams have the best of styles and I had to choose one which suited me. Oxford definitely have that.

"The gaffer has been so positive and showed a lot of encouragement to bring me here.

"I know he likes young players and he’s given me a lot of confidence and praise.

"I have to repay that by putting in performances on the pitch."

Born in Manchester, Holland came through the youth set-up at Everton before moving to West Ham in 2017.

His senior debut followed that September against Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup.

Having played for England at every age group between under 16 and under 19, his first two Premier League appearances came off the bench last month, against Wolves and Arsenal.

The rest of his experience has come for the Hammers' under 23 side, where he has scored 12 goals in 13 starts this season in Division 2 of Premier League 2.

Robinson has high hopes for the loan move, which gives United an extra dimension.

He said: "If I was moaning over something this season I’ve always said the team lacks pace.

"He certainly brings that.

"The competition to bring him here was very high – and not just in this league either.

"I think we all saw in the first half of the West Ham game he was excellent.

"When he was brought off we were relatively happy."