Louie Sibley ‘hungry’ to prove doubters wrong at Oxford United

Sibley has performed well in his return to the fold in OX4 after a season the 25-year-old described as ‘negative’ last year.

The Englishman struggled for game time last term under Gary Rowett with five match features before leaving on loan to Bradford City in January where he only managed four appearances.

With the arrival of former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey as head coach and the club being hit with a temporary transfer embargo in the summer, the door flung open for Sibley to impress and, with four appearances and one goal so far this season, he has done just that.

The former Derby County man scored a peach of a goal off the bench against Burton Albion before putting in a stellar showing in the following 1-1 draw with Cambridge United.

“As a footballer you always have ups and downs,” the Burton-born player explained.

Oxford United midfielder Louie Sibley (Image: Darrell Fisher)

“Last season was obviously a negative for me really but then I took it as a positive because I’ve learnt so much and…it’s kind of proving these people wrong that in life you have setbacks and this season I want to go again and play.

“It was a tough time last season but like I said the gaffer and the staff have been amazing with me so far so hopefully I can just keep being positive.

“There’s obviously lads that were nowhere near it last season and then he’s thrown players in so it just proves you’ve got to keep going.

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“For me personally, it’s nice to be back out there enjoying my football.

“At Oxford I’ve obviously had to be patient for regular football.

“I had a full season where I was in and out and I didn’t really play much, but I think for myself it was a massive learning curve and I’m kind of hungrier to prove people wrong.”

Sibley referenced the turbulent summer that the club endured, offering insight on what the situation was like as a player.

Oxford United midfielder Louie Sibley (Image: Oxford United)

“We’re obviously in a situation; it’s been frustrating for the fans but I think from our side, we’ve got a really good dressing room and the lads that are here now, obviously at the start of the season, no one knew what was going on but we’ve kind of just stuck together.

“We know we’ve got a good dressing room but also we’ve got a talented bunch.

“It’s been really enjoyable so far. I think watching the football, the fans have been quite happy.”

Sibley and the U’s team travel to face Exeter City in the Jersey Mike’s Trophy on Tuesday night.