Oxford United striker O'Donkor credits Ramsey's impact after scoring in Ramsey's first game in charge
Oxford United have begun their 2026/27 campaign with a 3-1 pre-season victory over Aldershot Town, and striker Gatlin O'Donkor has already highlighted the influence of new head coach Aaron Ramsey. The 21-year-old scored the U's second goal in a quick-fire second-half burst as Oxford came from behind to secure the win at the EBB Stadium. Ramsey, a former Arsenal midfielder, watched on as O'Donkor pounced on a mistake from the Shots goalkeeper to slot home, with Aidomo Emakhu and Jeon Jin-woo also finding the net. The result came in Ramsey's first game in front of supporters since taking charge in June.
O'Donkor, who turns 22 next month, has endured a frustrating spell plagued by injuries and personal issues over the past 12 months. He last featured for Oxford's first team in August 2025, a Carabao Cup win over Colchester United under then-manager Gary Rowett. Now, under Ramsey's guidance, the former Bristol Rovers loanee is determined to prove his worth. "It feels great to be back out there," O'Donkor told reporters after the match. "Obviously, a lot of injuries last year; it wasn't a great season for me. Couldn't really show what I'm capable of last year. But I'm just trying to remind everyone this year what I can bring to the team and hopefully today's a good start."
How O'Donkor sees his role under Ramsey
With Oxford currently operating under a transfer embargo, Ramsey's squad faces immediate challenges. O'Donkor, however, insists the new regime has already shifted the club's mentality. "He's really good to be fair," O'Donkor said. "He's come in, implemented his own style and he's big on the little things - timings, the quality of pass, the finer details. He's played at the highest level there is in football. It's good to learn from someone like that." The striker pointed to Ramsey's coaching methods as a key factor in the team's early cohesion. "It's nice to have someone with expertise at the club who can bring a lot of knowledge," he added. "The boys are really enjoying the way he wants to play so far."
Oxford United's season outlook with Ramsey in charge
League standing: Oxford sit 22nd in the Championship with 47 points from 46 games, trailing leaders Coventry by 48 points. Their recent form reads LWLLW, while they've scored 45 goals but conceded 59, leaving them with a goal difference of -14. Ramsey's debut match provided a morale boost, but the real test comes in the league. O'Donkor's performance suggests he's ready to compete for a starting spot alongside Mark Harris, though he stressed his focus remains on contributing rather than rivalry. "I'm happy with playing my part this season," he said. "Obviously, I would like to play an important role."
Next up for Oxford is a home fixture against AFC Wimbledon on 9 January 2027, a game that could offer further clarity on Ramsey's preferred system and O'Donkor's role within it. For now, the striker's early impression of Ramsey's expertise bodes well for a club desperate to turn around a tough campaign.
