Frankie Kent to miss most of Oxford United’s 2026-27 season

The 30-year-old signed for the U’s three weeks ago, but is set to spend the majority of the season on the sidelines.

Oxford United confirmed Kent sustained the injury during training.

It has not been stated which of the three grades of ACL injury Kent sustained, but it is most likely either a grade two (partial tear) or a grade three (complete tear). Grade three tears require surgery, but surgery can be given for grade two depending on the circumstances.

The defender, who joined the club this summer after three years with Heart of Midlothian, will now begin his recovery under the care of the club’s medical staff.

The club said: “Everyone at Oxford United wishes Frankie a full and speedy recovery, and the entire club will support him every step of the way.”

Kent joined the U’s on a free transfer after his contract expired in Edinburgh and was the first new signing of the summer transfer window.

He is also the first addition under Aaron Ramsey, the Oxford head coach, who replaced Matt Bloomfield a few weeks ago.

The former Peterborough United and Colchester United centre-back has League One experience with the Posh before moving across the border in 2023.

His move to Oxford came as Hearts decided to go in a different direction.

Kent was not a regular starter last season, playing third choice behind Craig Halkett and Stuart Findlay. It was the first time in his career that he wasn’t a regular starter.

However, Craig Cairns of the Hearts Standard gave insight into Kent’s playing style and qualities.

He said: “He’s great in the air, though should score more goals, physical and good at 1v1 defending.

“The reason he is so popular is that he always gave his all.

“He had poor days like everyone else but his attitude was never in doubt.”

Despite his lack of regular starts last season, Cairns believes Kent will be a success with Oxford United.

He said: “I can’t say I know too much about the style or standard in League One, but from what I can tell there are similarities in terms of physicality.

“There’s no doubt he’ll deal with that no problem and he came to Scotland with plenty of experience in England from his time at Peterborough.

“Obviously there are no guarantees with any signing, but I am confident Kent will be a success.”

Cairns also praised Kent’s leadership abilities, stating that he was the back-up captain whenever Hearts’ vice-captain Halkett was unavailable.

He added: “And 30 is young in football now. I’m confident he’s still got at least a few years in him.”