Gary Rowett has been ambitious with his targets for Oxford United next season after securing their Championship status.
The U’s were fairly comfortable in sealing their place in the second tier next season, achieving safety within the final few weeks of the season and finished four points above Luton Town in the drop zone.
Only Way Is Up For Rowett
Speaking to the Oxford Mail about his targets going into next season, Rowett was both grounded but upbeat about what his side can achieve. He said:
“I think the division is going to be a lot harder next year. I think everyone always says that, but there are some big clubs coming up and some big clubs coming down. It’s going to be incredibly challenging.
“In the end, we would’ve finished 10th over 25 games, so I think it shows the possibilities and the capability of the group.
“I don’t think necessarily that’s an easy target or an obvious target, but I do think finishing higher in the division than we currently are and not flirting with those relegation places should be the aim.
“Whatever that brings, it brings. If that puts us in the position to attack for the top 10, then that’s what it does, but I think that should be our aim. I don’t think our aim should be to stay up, I think it’s a really negative aim just to stay up.”
Oxford’s transfer planning has already begun with the release of their retained list with five players heading out of the door, including Max Woltman and Josh McEachran.
Writers’ View
As a manager, you never want to aim low and this is certainly the case here. Gary Rowett did a very impressive job since coming in at Oxford United and with how they played they have no reason to fear the drop. But second-season syndrome is a well-known issue and has to be navigated with some good transfer acumen. The club struggled to find a very consistent goalscorer this season and must find someone to fill that role or it could be a bumpy ride to safety in the next.
