FEW players faced their fears during Oxford United’s army training camp more than Jon Obika.

The striker is not keen on heights or swimming, so the prospect of jumping into the pool from a high diving board in one of the activities during the three-day stay at Gibraltar Barracks in Surrey was a test.

Obika admitted it had not been easy, but was thankful he had pushed himself to complete the exercise.

He said: “I managed it with some assistance from the sergeant and I’m glad I did it.

“The boys knew from Portugal (in pre-season) I don’t like the water too much, but you just get on with it.

“Once you’re up there it’s quite daunting, but when you jump you feel like you’ve pushed yourself and done something. It can only help in the long run.”

The whole visit was a jump into the unknown for the 27-year-old, but it had been a worthwhile experience.

He said: “I didn’t know what to expect because I’ve never done anything like this before.

“But I’m someone that likes to try new things and it’s been really good.

“I commend them (the soldiers) for their work.”