The return of right back Peter Kioso to Oxford United duties has been described by the player as an easy transition, as the club continue an unbeaten run through pre-season fixtures ahead of the coming campaign.
Opportunity amid squad reset
Kioso, 26, who last featured competitively for the U's in April 2025, has featured in all three friendly matches played so far this summer. His return coincides with head coach Aaron Ramsey offering the squad a clean slate while the club operate under a temporary transfer embargo.
After Oxford's 3-1 win over Crawley Town at the Kassam Stadium — their third victory following earlier pre-season wins against Aldershot Town and Barnet — Kioso said returning to the club felt straightforward. He was among a group of players who must now stake a claim for regular places as the squad is reshaped.
- Player: Peter Kioso (26)
- Recent competitive appearance: April 2025, 45 minutes vs Cardiff City
- Pre-season appearances: Featured in all three friendlies so far
"I'm happy to be back on an Oxford United shirt."
Squad dynamics and the manager's test
Kioso, who spent the 2024–25 season on loan at Peterborough United in League One, acknowledged the unevenness of his recent playing time but welcomed the environment at the club. He highlighted the dressing room character and the support he found on rejoining the squad, saying it felt "as if I never left."
Since his move from Rotherham United in 2024, Kioso has not been able to establish himself as an undisputed starter. The current situation presents a tangible opening: Ramsey has communicated that every member of the squad has the chance to prove they are capable of playing, creating competition for places.
| Pre-season fixture | Result |
|---|---|
| Aldershot Town | Win |
| Barnet | Win |
| Crawley Town (Kassam Stadium) | 3-1 win |
| Final friendly | vs Ipswich Town (Premier League opposition) |
Kioso stressed the benefits of internal competition. "You can tell that everyone is trying to give him a headache in terms of the game," he said, reflecting the positive pressure that competition for selection can bring. He added that this kind of challenge forces improved performances as Ramsey faces the difficult task of naming his starting XI.
For local supporters, the pre-season run offers encouragement: the team is unbeaten and facing a final test against Premier League opposition in Ipswich Town. For individual players such as Kioso, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining who emerges as a regular contributor once the Football League season begins.
