The U's player returned to the field on Tuesday against Wigan Athletic, featuring for 26 minutes in a 2-1 win in League One.

Emakhu had missed six league games through injury, last playing in the 2-1 away win at Stevenage in August before picking up an injury in training.

In his midweek cameo, the Irishman managed five shots, getting into great positions and instantly threaten the Latics' goal.

Emakhu joined the club on deadline day in January when Oxford were battling relegation from the Championship and has played 16 times for the club.

Speaking ahead of his side's clash with third-placed Bradford City this weekend, Emakhu reflected on his appearance against Wigan: "I hadn't had that many shots in a game before. I was getting really frustrated because I was waiting for everyone to just rip the back of the net.

"It didn't go for me, but I'm not too fussed on that bit because I know it'll go in eventually.

Oxford United winger Aidomo Emakhu beats his man against Derby County (Image: Jason Dawson)

"Coming onto the pitch I was feeling good. Probably the best I've felt on the football pitch in a while."

The 22-year-old's early-season absence opened the door for teenage sensation Mo Missanga to break into the first team.

The summer deadline day addition of Luka Lynch from Aston Villa also provided further competition for Emakhu upon his return.

Missanga has notched one goal and one assist whilst Lynch has provided three assists and also scored once; numbers that the returning winger will need to compete with on his return.

After watching from the side lines, the former Millwall man spoke his experience watching his teammates step up to the plate, saying: "First and foremost, you're happy for them because obviously your teammates are doing well.

"The two boys, Luka and Mo, off the pitch and stuff like that, I'm really close to them.

"Obviously, it's just frustrating because you know you can add to that and you want to add to that.

"You just want to be out there, enjoying it the way they are.

"It's frustrating, but it just makes you excited to come back and hungry to come back and eager to do well."

With Emakhu feeling at his physical best, the U's wide man is keen to hit the heights over the remainder of the season and is ready to play under Aaron Ramsey.

Oxford United winger Aidomo Emakhu (Image: Jason Dawson)

"I feel good. That's the gaffer's decision, what he does.

"Whenever he decides, I would understand it. He's good at communicating with me and stuff like that.

"I haven't set a specific number [of goals and assists], I just want to do as well as I can.

"I don't want to leave any stones unturned."