Burnell has spent time at local rivals Northampton and Wycombe

Oxford United boss Darren Patterson has made Northampton midfielder Joe Burnell his first summer signing.

The 27-year-old former Wycombe Wanderers player is described a hard tackling central midfielder.

Burnell told BBC Oxford: "I had offers on the table from league clubs but just because they are in the league doesn't mean they have ambition.

"The manager, chairman, the set-up and the fan-base all helped make the decision for me."

He added: "I know the manager says you have to take it game by game but for me getting this club back into the football league is essential."