JAMIE Hanson says he was determined to prove a point and looks to have succeeded in giving Oxford United a selection dilemma.

The 23-year-old was handed a start at right back in Tuesday’s win over Forest Green Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup and shone in a professional display.

His performance came just three days after Sam Long had been given the nod in place of the injured Tony McMahon for the Sky Bet League One victory over Gillingham.

The duo impressed boss Karl Robinson and they are both bidding to cement a place in the side with the 32-year-old out until late December.

Signed for a six-figure fee from Derby County on transfer deadline day, Hanson had made a slow start to his U’s career.

After operating predominantly in midfield, he was selected at right back against Rovers – a position he has played for the Rams and Wigan Athletic – and he was eager to show his worth.

“I’ve just been itching to get back in because I know full well my performances haven’t been good enough,” he said.

“It lit a fire in my belly and I just wanted to prove to everybody that I want to play for Oxford and I felt I did that.

“It doesn’t really matter what position as long as I’m on the pitch and I’ll give my all.

“I’d probably say I’ve played right back more times than I’ve played midfield, so it wasn’t anything new.

“I knew what I had to do, just be solid in defence and if I needed to get forward I could.”

Head coach Robinson was full of praise for Hanson.

He added: “I thought he was the best player on the pitch. It certainly does (give me food for thought).

“I wasn’t surprised, but I’ve seen him do that and what’s nice is our fans have now seen it.”

Long also came in for praise from Robinson after his display in United’s weekend win over the Gills.

The 23-year-old, from Bicester, is hoping he did enough to reclaim the spot.

He said: “I’d like to (cement my place).

“I don’t think I’ve ever not put on the shirt and not given my all.

“That’s all I can give and at the end of the day the manager makes the decisions.”

Robinson is an admirer of Long’s attitude.

He said: “Longy will openly admit that the flamboyance that is needed in the final third as an offensive modern day full back he might not have, but that man makes up for it with all the heart in the world.”