Oxford United winger Aidomo Emakhu on ‘belief’ from Aaron Ramsey

The U’s have won both of their pre-season fixtures so far after being hit with a transfer embargo earlier in the month.

After beating Aldershot Town 3-1, where Emakhu scored the Yellows’ first goal, Oxford came away with a 2-1 win away at League Two side Barnet on Saturday.

Former Arsenal and Premier League icon Ramsey replaced former head coach Matt Bloomfield in June before the upcoming League One season.

“He’s held a couple of meetings and he’s instilled that belief into us to say what we have at the moment, that’s what we’re working with,” Emakhu said after the win at The Hive.

“We’ve got more than enough in the dressing room to go and challenge this season. So, full belief in the lads and full belief in the staff and we’re all together on this one.

“He tells us how good we are as a collective. He tells us what we’re capable of, what we can do. He’s instilled that belief into us.

“The biggest thing for me is he’s been very clear in how he wants to play. In his identity, his values and stuff like that. There’s been no confusion, no grey areas.

“As an individual, he’s instilled that confidence in me. The licence to just go and attack, go and play with freedom at the top end of the pitch. I’m taking in every word he says.

Oxford United’s Aidomo Emakhu (right) battles with Charlton Athletic’s Kayne Ramsay (Image: Steven Paston/PA Wire)

“As we know, he’s been there and done it all. Everything he’s saying, the likes of [Chris Gunter] and [Tom Hutton], everything he’s saying, I’m taking it on board.

“I’m trying to take bits and pieces and add it into my game and see how far I can go this season.”

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“When you’re not scoring or when you’re not assisting, I think you’ve got to affect the game in some way, whether that’s creating for your teammates or getting some shots off and giving the defenders something to think about.

“I think I’ve done that well today. Like I said, I like being impactful regardless of whether I’m scoring or not scoring.”

Emakhu arrived at the club from Championship club Millwall on deadline day of the winter window earlier this year.

After taking a bit of time to find his feet, the Irishman began to show promise in the final few fixtures and has made his Republic of Ireland debut since suffering relegation with the U’s.

There is hope that the 22-year-old can be an impactful figure in the front line in League One this season.