JACK Stevens paid tribute to three key figures in his development after agreeing a new contract at Oxford United.

The highly-rated goalkeeper signed a three-and-a-half year deal yesterday, keeping him at the club until summer 2024.

Stevens, 23, has been an ever-present in Sky Bet League One since replacing Simon Eastwood for the 0-0 home draw with Ipswich Town on December 1.

The academy graduate has welcomed the competition and support from his experienced teammate, but reserved special praise for goalkeeping coach Wayne Brown.

Read also: Jack Stevens signs new Oxford United contract

He said: “Wayne’s been here since I joined at 16 and he’s probably been the biggest influence on my career.

“Easty’s been here for a long time and I’ve learnt a lot from him as well.

“We’re a close-knit group.

“Me and Easty have been pushing each other for a while now, but we also have a great relationship off the pitch.

“That’s really helpful and we always wish the best for each other.”

Stevens’ first taste of senior football came on loan at Oxford City in 2017/18, before Eastwood’s second-half red card against Charlton Athletic on Good Friday 2019 thrust him in for his U’s debut.

He closed out a 2-1 win, before making his first start in the 3-2 victory at Shrewsbury Town on Easter Monday.

The youngster then had to be patient, playing only three times in the EFL Trophy last season and adding five cup appearances earlier this term.

But Stevens has completed all 15 of United’s league games since coming in for Eastwood, keeping eight clean sheets.

Read also: Jack Stevens braced for busy afternoon at MK Dons

The stopper has grabbed the opportunity and thanked head coach Karl Robinson for trusting his strengths.

Stevens said: “That was a big thing at the start of the season.

“He was on to the goalkeepers about having a high starting position and stopping the attacks before they even happen.

“It’s something we’ve worked on and I feel like it suits me.

“I’ve always had that in my game and I like to be on the front foot.

“I’m ready for when the ball comes over the top.”

He added: “The gaffer’s always talking to me and trying to help me improve.

“Starting position and kicking are just as important as making saves.

“These days, these aspects of goalkeeping are vital for the team’s performance so any improvements in those areas he’s there to help me.”

United will aim to cut the gap to the Sky Bet League One

play-off places at MK Dons today (3pm).

The U’s are five points shy of the top six and Stevens is relishing the chase.

He said: “Every game is important because we’re in touching distance, so hopefully we can keep getting closer.”