Chapman needed "fresh start" from Oxford United (From Herald Series)

Chapman needed "fresh start" from Oxford United

9:20am Friday 8th March 2013 in United News By David Pritchard, Chief Sports Reporter covering Oxford United. Follow us on twitter: @oxfordmailoufc. Call me on 01865 425458

OXFORD United were not looking to offload Adam Chapman, but manager Chris Wilder believes the move to Mansfield Town could benefit all three parties.

The 23-year-old was loaned out for the rest of the campaign after an approach on Monday from former U’s midfielder Adam Murray, who is a player/assistant manager with the Stags.

The Oxford Mail understands the move will become permanent if Mansfield, who are third in the Blue Square Bet Premier, win promotion this season.

With a year left on his deal with the U’s, it is believed the transfer would also include a fee.

Wilder felt Chapman had not developed as quickly as the club had hoped and thinks the change of scene may help, while taking a wage off the playing budget.

He said: “We offered him a two-year deal and were looking for him to show a bit of consistency.

“I wasn’t looking to get rid of Adam Chapman, but football’s like that and it happened.

“You do what you think is right for the club.

“I could have easily kept him here, but maybe he needed to get a fresh start and get himself going again.”