He could even feature in the U’s final pre-season matches; away at Solihull Moors next Saturday or a behind closed doors friendly with the under 23 squad.

But it’s important that U’s boss Karl Robinson doesn’t rush the attacking midfielder back from his injury to quickly or too soon.

Robinson told the Oxford Mail: “We’re hoping he’s ten days away from a game. Solihull is nine days away, so you never know, there might be five minutes in that, or there may be a game the following week for the under 23s

“He’s massively ahead of schedule, which is great for him and us because we know how good he can be. He’ll be like a new signing.”

Despite an injury-hit first full season with the senior side, Baptiste was a shining light in an otherwise dull Oxford team in the first half of the season.

Results were again Robinson’s side, but the youngsters’ introduction to the first team gave the fans some optimism.

And his solid performances were rewarded with a new contract with the League One side, removing the risk of the youth graduate being available to leave for free in the summer. It’s those performances and appraisal from his manager that has kept Baptiste in a good place whilst sidelined.

It’s a really good thing when you hear that,” Baptiste said.

“To me, it shows how well I did when I was playing and how much confidence the gaffer has in me to keep me in his thoughts. Hopefully, when I’m back I can produce performances that he’s proud of.

“I need to play and show everyone at the club who showed their support in me. I know what I can do.”

The return would be a welcome one for the U’s fans, who are becoming more frustrated with the lack of summer signings.