MICHAEL Collins says it is vital Oxford United provide their fans with a glimpse of a bright future during the final five games of the season.

Safety from relegation was virtually guaranteed with four points from their two Easter fixtures.

It means there is little tangible for the U’s to play for in the final four weeks of the season, but Collins insisted there was no risk the squad would wind down towards the summer.

The midfielder is fully aware the campaign has been a disappointment for supporters, but believes a strong finish will show them the club is on track to contend for promotion in 12 months’ time.

He said: “I think it can make a difference for the whole club in general.

“It has been a difficult season for the fans, because we’ve not given them a lot to shout about.

“We realise that sometimes we have to look at the bigger picture and almost give them a little look into next season over the five games.

“We want as many as we can here next season to make sure we give them something to shout about.

“In the next five games we’d like to show them we have got a lot of positives going forward and this will be a side challenging at the top end next season, rather than the bottom end.

“I thought it would be this season, that’s not been the case, but if we can finish on a positive and build for next year that’s got to be the thing we concentrate on between now and the end of the season.”

The 28-year-old walked out on a trial with Sky Bet League One side Bradford City last summer to become one of Michael Appleton’s first signings.

United’s ambition was key to the decision and although it has gone unfulfilled this season, Collins is willing to put money on the club making progress sooner rather than later.

“There aren’t many clubs in the lower leagues who have ambitions to make it into the Championship – and this is one that has,” he said.

“I’ve seen the plans and I’m pretty sure anybody who got a look at those (would think) this club is going to go places and it’s important people stamp a marker down and make sure they want to be a part of it.”

He added: “The vibes coming from within the club is that you’ve got to prove yourself to be a part of what’s going to happen at this club.

“I’d have a little bet with anybody that in three or four years time this club will be knocking on the door of the Championship, if not in it.

“That’s a big statement, but I genuinely believe it and buy into it.”