Oxford United are aiming to appoint a new head coach by the weekend, following the dismissal of Des Buckingham.
The club plans to have their new manager in place in time for Saturday’s Championship clash against Leeds United at Elland Road.
Buckingham’s Departure
Buckingham was controversially sacked yesterday, just seven months after guiding Oxford United to the second tier of English football for the first time in 25 years. The highlight of his tenure came in May, when a Josh Murphy brace secured a 2-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers in the League One play-off final at Wembley.
However, after a strong start to life in the Championship, with three wins from their opening five matches, the U’s have faltered. A run of just one win in their last 15 games has left them 20th in the table, a point above the relegation zone. Their recent struggles were highlighted by a 3-1 home defeat to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday and a lacklustre 2-0 loss to Queens Park Rangers last Wednesday.
Compensation and Search for a Replacement
Buckingham, who signed a three-and-a-half-year deal when he arrived from Mumbai City in November 2023, is expected to receive a significant compensation package. This financial commitment suggests that Oxford’s search for his successor may focus on unemployed managers.
Among the bookmakers’ favourites are Gary Rowett, Mark Robins, Ryan Lowe, Steven Schumacher, and Steve Cooper, all of whom are currently unattached. With the U’s aiming for a quick turnaround, it appears probable that the new manager will come from this pool of out-of-work candidates.
Competition for Managers
Oxford’s situation is complicated by the fact that several other clubs are also searching for new managers. Fellow Championship side Millwall are seeking a replacement after Neil Harris stepped down last week. Meanwhile, Premier League strugglers Wolves and Southampton, both rooted to the bottom of the table, sacked Gary O’Neil and Russell Martin, respectively, on the same day as Buckingham’s departure.
