Front Three
Gavin Whyte
We all know Karl Robinson loves a winger and this season he was spoilt for choice. James Henry missed much of the season through injury, Williams was often deployed in defence and Nathan Holland often struggled to hit the heights.
But, like Holland, it was another returning player that stood out for the U’s this season in Gavin Whyte. The Northern Ireland international may have only scored one goal in 39 outings but he laid on ten assists.
If his finishing was better, there was a good chance that Oxford could have secured a top-six finish. Despite that, the 26-year-old will be pleased with his contribution and he makes our side.
Mark Sykes
Another Irishman takes the other wing spot with Mark Sykes having his best season to date. The former Northern Ireland U21 international has often struggled to cement a place in Robinson’s line-up, largely down to struggling to make a position his own as he is capable of covering in several roles, but this season he grabbed the opportunity.
Sykes still played in a number of positions but it was still his strongest campaign, with the 24-year-old scoring eight times and providing eight assists from 45 appearances in all competitions.
However, his output could have been more. While his performances were still relatively consistent, his goal contributions dropped drastically from January once he was linked with moves away.
Out of contract in the summer, it seems highly likely he will depart. Of course, after a productive season, it will be a shame to see him leave but he ends the campaign in our line-up.
Matty Taylor
There was no doubting who would lead the line in our best XI. Matty Taylor had his strongest season for the club in front of goal with the striker finding the net 22 times in all competitions.
With Oxford ending the season as the highest-scoring side in League One, Taylor was prolific in reaching that feat. Not only did he net over 20 goals for the first time since he returned to the club but he also added seven assists.
In the FA Cup ties against Bristol Rovers, he scored twice and provided two assists while seven of his league goals were crucial in picking up points.
There was more pressure on him to provide this season with the 32-year-old being, for the most part, the only fit striker available.
