JAMIE Ashdown will use the final five games of this season to show Oxford United that he deserves to remain at the club longer.

The 34-year-old goalkeeper was handed a first start in Saturday’s 0-0 draw at AFC Wimbledon, making several fine stops to ensure a clean sheet.

The ex-Portsmouth man, released by Crawley in December, has been told he will start the remaining games this season by boss Michael Appleton, with Ryan Clarke making way.

Ashdown is determined to take advantage of the situation.

“A clean sheet is what you strive for, so it’s clearly pleasing to get that,” he said.

“Clarkey has played very well lately, keeping me on the bench, but it’s nice to get a chance.


“I have got five games to prove myself and see what happens ahead of next season.

“It’s an opportunity to show what I can do.”

Ashdown is uncertain of the future, but will let his performances on the pitch do the talking.

“I don’t know what it holds,” he said. “I’m at Oxford at the moment and I am here to play. We’ll take it from there.”

Appleton explained the decision to hand Ashdown an opportunity at the expense of Clarke.

“We wanted to have a look at Jamie over the remainder of the games,” he said.

“Since he’s come into the club he has been different class and has pushed Clarkey all the way.

“Ryan was disappointed, but I explained the reasons and he understand that we are in a position where I need to look at different people.”