MATCH-WINNER James Henry believes Oxford United’s off-field problems have brought the squad closer together.

The midfielder’s 13th goal of an impressive individual season proved the difference in a 2-1 victory at home to Sky Bet League One leaders Portsmouth.

It was a result few outside the relegation strugglers’ camp would have predicted, particularly given their build-up.

They had made the headlines for all the wrong reasons following another winding-up petition, since settled, from HM Revenue & Customs and a leaked lewd video involving Gavin Whyte.

But the winger delivered an impressive performance and received a standing ovation when he was substituted late on.

In pictures: Gallery from Oxford United's win against Portsmouth

And Henry thought the unwanted publicity had galvanised the side.

“I think so,” he said. “Sometimes there’s negativity and it’s how you come out the other side of it.

“Things happen and with Gav’s one he’s a young lad who has made a mistake.

“He’s held his hands up and we move on from it.

“The HMRC one has got nothing to do with us players, all we can do is our jobs.

“We’re still getting paid to do our jobs. It would be nice for the fans to have some clarity on it, but for us there’s nothing we can do.

“I thought everyone through the whole club were fantastic. The supporters were magnificent, we want this place rocking.”

Boss Karl Robinson made a late call to decide whether Whyte was fit to play, so was thrilled with the response – from the player and the United supporters.

Match report: Oxford Utd 2, Portsmouth 1

He said: “It’s been a difficult week for him and all the staff and players have got behind him.

“You saw the reception he got from the fans. He was worried about letting our fans down and have them look at him in a negative way.

“I think he’s certainly seen that he’s signed for a club where the fans care for him.

“It helps when you’re a good player, but it’s to be applauded.”

Henry’s winner just before half-time came thanks to an unselfish assist from Jamie Mackie.

The forward could easily have pulled the trigger himself, but spotted United’s top scorer in a better position.

Henry said: “We all know Jamie’s a lot more than just goals – he’s very good at realising where he is and who’s around him.

“His work rate for the team and the amount of assists he’s bringing us at the moment is brilliant. He’s a real asset for the team.”