Foster was named Oxford's player of the season last term

Blue Square Premier side Oxford United have been given a boost with the news that influential defender Luke Foster has signed a new contract extension.

The 22-year-old had attracted the interest of a number of football league clubs, but will now remain at the club until the end of the 2009/10 season.

Manager Darren Patterson said: "Luke has earned his reward with some very consistent displays.

"He has changed a few things off the pitch and really focused on his game."

Patterson added: "He has a massive role to play for us over the next two years. He had a year to run on his contract but we want him here beyond that so we had a meeting and I'm delighted that we think along similar lines.

"Luke is enjoying his football, has a great rapport with the fans, and wants to be here. I'm pleased we got it sorted and that he wants to be a big part of what we are building here."

The club have also confirmed former Derby keeper Ben Hinchcliffe, 19, has signed non-contract terms at the Kassam Stadium.