Oxford United Women have secured the futures of twelve players as they build towards the 2026/27 campaign. Key figures Jenna Legg and Naomi Bedeau are among the group to commit, with the club announcing the retained list on 1 June. Riva Casley already had a contract in place, while an option was exercised to extend Bedeau’s deal. Alice Bussey, working her way back from a successful ACL operation, has also signed on as manager Liam Gilbert looks to forge a settled squad going into his first full season in charge.
Gilbert, who returned to the club in November 2025 after a previous five-year stint from 2018 to 2023, said the continuity provided by keeping so many players together was vital. “We’re really pleased to have secured the futures of so many important players. They have all contributed significantly to the development of the squad and have shown great commitment to what we’re building at Oxford United. The continuity this gives us is incredibly valuable as we look ahead to next season. We believe this group has plenty more to achieve together and we’re excited to continue that journey,” he told the official website.
The full retained list runs to twelve names: Alice Bussey, Bethany-May Wookey, Ellie-Mae Richardson, Emma Thompson, Grace Palmer, Holly Manders, Jenna Legg, Kate Wiseman, Maisy Barker, Nicola Gibson, Ruby Sealey and Shaunna Jenkins, each signing new contracts. They form the core of a side that finished fourth in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division in 2025/26, a campaign in which Watford edged the title by a single point ahead of Plymouth Argyle.
Gilbert replaced Sam Rose midway through last term, having previously guided the side to a third-place finish in the 2022/23 season. His return has been marked by an emphasis on squad stability, and the commitment of twelve regulars offers a clear platform as preparations for the new season begin. Bussey’s determination to return from her knee injury has been noted by staff, with her new deal underlining mutual faith between player and club.
The retained players will wear yellow and blue again when the 2026/27 FA Women’s National League season gets underway, with Oxford United hoping to turn a solid foundation into a stronger promotion push.
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