The 2016-17 campaign was a strong statement for Oxford United in their first season back in the third tier, with The Us finishing a respectable 8th in League One, just four points outside the play-off places and the highest of the promoted teams. Leading the charge was the talismanic forward Chris Maguire, whose career-best 17 goals across all competitions (13 in the league) proved vital, with significant contributions from loanee Conor McAleny. The season was built on cup runs and ambition, including reaching the FA Cup Fifth Round after a memorable 3-0 upset over Newcastle United, and a second consecutive appearance in the EFL Trophy Final at Wembley Stadium. It was a breakthrough year under Michael Appleton that solidified the team's place in League One and remains a proud chapter of competitive resurgence for the club.