U's recall defender Negru as keeper McGinty leaves

Oxford United have recalled defender Stephan Negru from his season-long loan with League Two promotion challengers Salford City.

Negru has made 17 league starts for Salford this season since joining them in July.

The 22-year-old signed for Oxford from League of Ireland side Shelbourne in January 2023 and made 15 appearances in their League One promotion-winning campaign last season.

He returns to Oxford in time for this weekend's FA Cup third-round tie at Exeter, with the U's having an injury doubt surrounding defender Elliott Moore.

Moore suffered a groin injury in the win at Millwall on 1 January and missed Saturday's draw at Preston North End.

Meanwhile, Oxford have confirmed goalkeeper Ed McGinty has signed for League of Ireland club Shamrock Rovers on a permanent deal.

The 25-year-old, who made 10 first-team appearances for the U's, had been on loan with Sligo Rovers, from whom he joined Oxford in 2022.