Oxford United have officially announced Liam Manning’s predecessor; following a club statement released this evening.
Des Buckingham who originates from Oxford, whilst having spent time with the U’s as a youth prospect, has been officially confirmed as the new Head Coach for the League One outfit.
Although a professional playing career didn’t materialise for the 38-year-old, coaching is where he excelled. Already familiar with the club and facilities, Buckingham began his coaching endeavour with his new employers where he worked amongst the academy, developing young players.
Furthermore, during Chris Wilder’s reign at the Kassam, Buckingham worked closely with the former Sheffield United boss, progressing through to a first team coach. However in 2014, he headed over 11,000 miles to New Zealand, taking up a role with Wellington Phoenix as Assistant Manager.
Following the sacking of Head Coach Ernie Merrick, Buckingham was promoted internally to fill the vacant role following an undefeated stint as an interim. In total, the then 31-year-old took charge of 19 games, resulting in six wins, six draws and seven losses.
After a short spell back in England working as an Assistant with Stoke City’s U23’s, Buckingham returned to New Zealand, operating within the national team, adopting roles ranging from Assistant Manager to Caretaker to leading the U23s and U20s sides across a two-year period. Rewarded for his efforts, he received the Men’s Coach of the year at New Zealand Football Awards in 2020.
After achieving success with the Kiwi’s, Buckingham crossed the Tasman Sea, linking up with A-League champions Melbourne City. Success followed him and The Garden City claimed the A-League Premiers Plate, the equivalent of winning the league.
On the back of continuous success, Indian giants Mumbai City, who are connected with Melbourne City through the ‘City Group’ franchise, secured the former Reading prospects services as their Head Coach. At the helm, Buckingham won the league whilst breaking records such as most points accumulated and most goals scored in a single season.
The appointment was carefully considered by Oxford United’s Head of Recruitment Ed Waldron. Speaking on Buckingham he stated;
“Des is someone we’ve been monitoring for a while. He’s young, highly regarded and already has a wealth of coaching experience.”
“His attacking style of play and philosophy suits the squad we are building and will help this outstanding group of players continue their excellent start to the season.”
Chairman Grant Ferguson added;
“I couldn’t be happier that Des has agreed to become our new Head Coach. His approach to coaching and developing players is a perfect match for the vision we have for the club.”
Buckingham will lead his boyhood club for the first time, following the conclusion of the current international fixtures, making the short trip to Gloucestershire to face Cheltenham Town.
Writer’s View
At just 38 yeas old, Buckingham is regarded as one of the top up and coming English coaches. His attractive style of football alongside an applaudable 55.56% win rate suggests that he’s got all the know-how and tools to help Oxford United to continue to challenge for promotion this season.
The already existing link with the club can work to his favour, however he will also be weary of tarnishing his name with the faithful of the club he loves.
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