JOSH Ruffels has revealed the secret behind his impressive upturn in goalscoring form.

The midfielder’s stoppage-time winner against Doncaster Rovers last weekend was his fifth this season.

It is quite a return for someone who had averaged a goal once every 32 games in the rest of his career.

Only Jack Payne and Wes Thomas have scored more often for Oxford United, but the 24-year-old is on a mission to reach double figures.

After netting in the 2-0 win at Oldham Athletic on the opening day in August, a supporter got in touch with a proposition which has proved inspirational.

Ruffels said: “I’ve not had this goalscoring reputation, but it’s a great feeling. I love it.

“On Twitter after the Oldham game a fan got in touch and said they would make a £100 donation to charity if I got ten goals this season.

“Then other people kept adding to it. I think it came to about £600 if I reach double figures.

“I’m five down and five to go.

“It’s a little motivational thing for me and it’s obviously working. I’ve got to keep it going.”

Brandon Trust, which works across southern England to support people with learning disabilities and autism, stand to benefit if he hits the target.

Ruffels will be attempting to net for a sixth time tomorrow when United visit Rochdale.

Pep Clotet’s side are looking to extend a five-game run where the only blip has come with a 4-2 defeat to Blackburn Rovers.

Otherwise the U’s have looked more robust defensively, which has encouraged the midfielder.

He said: “It has been good. Blackburn was a bit unfortunate conceding so quickly didn’t give us a chance.

“We are playing well, it’s just making sure we don’t concede early.

“We know we can score goals whenever, so if we can keep it out of the net and we become a difficult side to beat.”