Young footballers in Blackbird Leys will represent Oxford in a national football tournament.

The female squad was formed under Oxford United's Premier League Kicks programme, a free initiative designed to inspire youngsters.

In 2020, Oxford United in the Community, the club’s charity, introduced the programme in Oxfordshire.

The sessions, which take place weekly during term time, include workshops, volunteering, and social action campaigns.

The Oxford team qualified for the Premier League Kicks Cup final by defeating Crawley, Brighton, Reading, Southampton, and Southend.

The final will be held at the St George’s Park in Staffordshire on July 24.

Mark Thomas, social inclusion lead at Oxford United in the Community, said: "Providing participants with the chance to represent the U’s badge at a national competition will be a dream come true for many."

He praised the team's achievements, stating: "Playing at St George’s Park is not something everyone gets to experience, there is a lot of excitement among players.

"Seeing the team develop relationships on and off the pitch has been really rewarding."

The programme, funded by the Premier League Charitable Fund, has reached half a million young players since 2006, with many clubs offering free sessions.

Mr Thomas added: "Premier League Kicks unites people and fosters positive relationships, supporting happier, healthier, and better-connected communities."

The programme will continue in Oxfordshire from the 2024-25 academic year.