BANBURY United have signed former Oxford United trainee Jack Stevens.

The 20-year-old was released by the U’s at the end of last season and joins after a short spell at Hayes & Yeading United.

Stevens links back up with Andy Whing, who worked with the forward when he was in charge of United’s youth team from 2015 to 2017.

“We’re delighted to be bringing in Jack,” the Puritans boss told Banbury’s website.

“I’ve worked with him before at Oxford United and jumped at the chance to work with him again.

“He’s a very intelligent footballer and wants to continue to improve, which fits in to what we have in the squad already.

“It’s another exciting addition for us.”

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Stevens signed his first professional U’s contract last October and has had loan spells at Thame United, Hungerford Town and Chippenham Town.

He said: “I’m delighted to be joining Banbury, it’s a place where I can continue to grow as a player and a person.

“I can’t wait to get going and build on the good start to the season.”

Banbury are unbeaten in 2021/22 and sit fourth in Pitching In Southern League Premier Central, while they face Bath City next Saturday for a place in the Emirates FA Cup first round proper.

But the Puritans have seen Jack Westbrook leave this week after the captain received an approach from a ‘higher-ranked club’.

The skipper has played 219 games for the Puritans across three spells.

“Obviously we’re extremely disappointed to lose our captain, not only was he a very good player on the pitch but also a really good influence within the dressing room,” Whing said.

“We wish Jack the very best of luck at his new club and we thank him for his commitment to this football club over the years playing over 200 games which is a fantastic achievement.

“A top guy as well off the pitch, who I thank personally for everything he has done.”