Oxford United manager Michael Appleton has expressed his excitement at landing Joe Rothwell from Manchester United.

Rothwell ended his lifelong association with United on Tuesday by agreeing a move to League One outfit Oxford.

The 21-year-old has signed on a two-year deal at the Kassam Stadium and U's boss Appleton was clearly left very pleased at being able to seal a deal for the youngster.

Appleton told the club's official website: "Joe is a really talented lad who we believe has a very bright future.

"He has played for all of the England age group teams and been around the first-team at Old Trafford.

"He can play midfield or slightly further forward and he now gets a chance to get a run of games together and truly show what he can do."