OXFORD LOANEE EYEING ROLE IN PREMIER
JACK Payne is closer than anybody in League One to a crack at the Premier League – and he knows it.
Having helped parent club Huddersfield to Championship play-off glory in May, Payne is on loan at League One top-six hopefuls Oxford, with the U’s just four points outside the top six before the weekend.
The 23-year-old midfielder is closing in on 30 appearances for his loan club this term but has a fixation on showing his worth to his permanent employers all over again.
“I think about everything in terms of proving myself to Huddersfield,” he said.
“They’re at the top. I think they’ll stay there and that’s where I want to be.
“I’ve got to do everything I can at Oxford to force my way in. That’s the plan.
“I still get a lot of encouragement from Huddersfield fans. I’ve got a lot of fond memories and I want more time there.”
The East End boy has Wembley pedigree, with two promotions already on his CV at the age 23.
Three seasons ago, Payne dispatched a crucial penalty in Southend’s shoot-out win over Wycombe in the League Two play-off final.
He then made 24 appearances in Huddersfield’s successful play-off push last term, sealed via spotkicks again, though that time he didn’t make the Terriers’ matchday squad.
However, the playmaker feels equipped to help Oxford achieve their promotion potential because he is being allowed to flourish in his natural role.
“Oxford are playing me in the hole, at No.10 in every game, which is perfect for me,” he said.
“It’s what I’ve needed and not really had so far in my career – that licence to go and play.
“We’ve been getting some good results and hopefully we can stay in touch with the play-offs.”