Chairman's comments and transfer rumours

The season may be over, but there has still been plenty of news at Oxford United over the last seven days.

Chairman Grant Ferguson discussed possible new signings while a player transfer was under discussion.

Oxford United Weekly Roundup: Chairman and manager comments and transfer rumours begin

“We are looking for a number of very, very good new recruits”

U's chairman Grant Ferguson said the club will target both quality and quantity in the upcoming transfer window.

He told the Oxford Mail: “Ed's [Waldron, head of recruitment] has a busy summer ahead of him, but Ed is Ed and started two different scenarios weeks ago.

“He has a very clear idea of ​​what kind of player we want. I don't think we are looking for a star player. We are looking for a number of very, very good new signings.

“We need a combination of experience that will give us an advantage against young, high-caliber players. We will get the very best young players and take them with us on our journey.”

“I can’t praise Grant Ferguson and Tim Williams enough”

Oxford head coach Des Buckingham has praised the club's board for their support during a difficult period.

The 39-year-old had a mixed run of form before finally finishing the season in fifth place and gaining promotion to the Championship via the playoffs.

After his club's promotion in the League One play-off final, Buckingham thanked United chairman Grant Ferguson and chief executive Tim Williams for their support during difficult times.

He said: “I can't praise Grant Ferguson and Tim Williams enough. I've been tested, there have been some dark days and sometimes you go to bad places.

“You have to be true to yourself and challenge your behavior and your beliefs. But if you have the support of your chairman and your CEO, like I do, then I have no worries.”

“The support they gave me and those around me was a wonderful sign for me of where our football club stands.”

He added: “The last six months have been a whirlwind. You're trying to prove that you can coach at this level, firstly to the players, secondly to the fans and thirdly to everyone else who said you don't have experience at this level of football.”

“You are constantly being tested, as I have been in my last three positions. A lot has changed for me, but what has really helped me are the people here.

“I came here on my own, but Craig Short, Lewis Price, Chris Hackett, Ed Waldron, to name a few, the way we've used those skills and built relationships makes things a little easier than coming here and trying to build things from scratch.”

Oxford United transfer rumours

The transfer rumors have started and in the last week there was one possible arrival and one possible departure.

Numerous reports claimed that Oxford were one of several clubs targeting Brighton midfielder Mark Leonard.

Wrexham and Cardiff are also said to be interested in the 22-year-old, who spent the last two seasons on loan at Northampton.

The Scot has one year left on his contract at the AMEX Stadium and the U's are reportedly seeking a permanent deal.

In terms of departures, Scottish club St Mirren have taken notice of U's midfielder Oisin Smyth.

The 24-year-old has struggled to get playing time despite the U's successful promotion to the Championship, so a move could be a good deal for both sides.

Smyth joined the U's in January 2022 but has only made 16 appearances in all competitions this season.

Another report said the Northern Irishman had undergone a medical at his club as he will be taking part in European competition next season.