Lewes striker Jonte Smith has joined Oxford United.

Smith, who first joined the club in 2016 and scored 56 goals in 121 appearances for the Rooks, had his contract with the club terminated, allowing him to join the League One side after the January window closed.

Smith has signed a deal until the end of the season.

Darren Freeman is sorry to see his 24-year-old star striker go.

The Lewes boss said: "When I first signed Jonte, the ultimate plan was to get him back playing League football.

"Jonte has put himself in the shop window with his performances over the past couple of years and he deserves his chance.

"Jonte's been a fantastic role model for the club. It goes without saying that myself, Ross and Codge - and I'm sure all the players and fans - hope to see him doing really well for Oxford. With a lot of hard work the sky's the limt for him."

Smith scored a hat-trick against Oxford when on trial with Swindon earlier this season.

Oxford head coach Karl Robinson said: β€œHe is very raw but he is a goalscorer and we think he deserves longer to try and impress us.”