Mark Sykes has completed his move to League 1 side Oxford United having agreed a two and a half year deal with the U’s. According to the Oxford United website Mark could make his debut in Saturday’s FA Cup 3rd Round tie away to Brentford.

Mark Sykes celebrates what turned out to be his last goal for Glenavon in the 4-0 win against Coleraine. Photo by Alan Weir

“I’m really excited to have got things sorted out. Obviously it is a step up to full time football but I have played over 140 games in competitive men’s football and have learned so much in that time. I was really impressed by the Manager at Oxford, by the plans the club have and I can’t wait to get started,” Sykes told the U’s website after completing the formalities earlier today. Full story on the Oxford United website here

Gary Hamilton has said of the 21-year old “Mark deserves his chance. He’s been a great servant to this football club. He’s been a tremendous player in the Irish League, he’s entertained everyone that’s watched him, not just our fans, and he’s someone that I feel has the potential, if he keeps his head down and works hard and listens to the coaches over there as well, he’s only going to get better with full-time training.”

Mark, who made his first team debut in a 4-0 league victory against Glentoran at The Oval in March 2014, went on to make a total of 137 appearances for the first team (including 19 as a substitute), scoring a total of 20 goals. His final appearance was in the 3-3 draw with Institute on Saturday last, January 29th and his last goal for the Club was in the 4-0 home win against Coleraine that was shown live on BBC Sport NI.

I’m sure you will all join me in thanking Mark for the entertainment he has given us and wishing him all the best in his future full-time football career.