Oxford United’s latest signing Jordan Obita is relishing the chance to feature in the A420 derby against Swindon Town.
Despite being born in Oxford, the former Reading player wasn’t fully aware of the rivalry but has since learned how fierce it can be.
He is one of four Oxford-born players in the squad, alongside Matty Taylor, Sam Long and Josh Ruffels, while Jack Stevens came through the academy.
Ruffels is the only one of the quartet to have played in this fixture, coming on as a 90th-minute substitute during the 2-0 win in 2015 and starting during the only draw between the two sides in the U’s eight-game unbeaten run.
With all four looking likely to start against the Robins, Obita is raring to go. Speaking to the Oxford Mail, he said: “It’s my first time being involved in a big rivalry like this.
“When I was at Reading you had London clubs who you tried to make a rivalry with, but it’s not really a rivalry.
“We’ve got a good record against Swindon, so hopefully we continue that.
“I’ve always known of the rivalry, but because I was never an Oxford player I didn’t get everything around it.
“Now I do and I want to be a part of that to keep that going.”
Although there are no fans in attendance, Obita believes it won’t impact the players who will remain just as determined to earn the bragging rights.
He added: “I wish it was with fans, but unfortunately that’s not the case. As a whole city, we want to win that game.
“My thoughts never change – I always want to destroy every team I play against.”
