Another busy week at Oxford United ended with a seventh defeat in eight games, which also proved too much for manager Karl Robinson as he was sacked.
Elsewhere, the was another backroom departure and the club captain had stepped down from the role.
Oxford United Weekly Round-Up: Another Defeat Costs Karl Robinson His Job
Head of Recruitment Joins League One Rivals
As was reported last month, Oxford United’s Head of Recruitment has left the club after nine years to join League One rivals, Derby County.
Thomas oversaw the arrival of several key players, including Kemar Roofe, Rob Atkinson and Luke McNally – all of which left the club on seven-figure sums.
CEO Tim Williams, who has now taken the role, told the club’s official website: “Mark has done a great job.
“He has recruited and scouted players from near and far and has a proven track record.
“At the same time he has set up a strong department with the help and experience of Derek Fazackerley and Ed Waldron and I know they are determined to take things on and further develop our recruitment department and strategy, building from the excellent foundation that Mark leaves behind
“He will remain a friend to us all and he leaves with our very best wishes”.
Thomas added: “I am leaving behind a really special club and a lot of people who I know will remain friends for life.
“It has been challenging, but I am very grateful to the club for providing me with the opportunity to design and implement a recruitment structure and strategy I believe in.
“I am extremely proud of the work we have done together over the past nine seasons; developing young players and seeing the club grow and push for promotion.
“However, it’s now time for a new challenge, and the chance to join a huge club like Derby was too exciting to turn down.
“I know I am leaving a club that has extremely exciting plans and I leave on the best of terms, wishing everyone the best of luck for the future.”
Change of Captaincy
Ahead of Oxford’s clash against Bristol Rovers, U’s boss Karl Robinson confirmed that Elliott Moore has stepped down as captain.
Speaking to the Oxford Mail, he said: “We spoke to Elliott Moore in the week – he took over after the Swindon game and has done an unbelievable job.
“He’s been through an awful lot recently privately and we just felt that sometimes a change in that situation is positive.
“I looked at it and the purpose of being a captain.
“We’re sharing it now between Cameron Brannagan and Sam Long – obviously John Mousinho’s moved on as well so we’ve lost our club captain.
“Sam Long is someone I’ve got unbelievable respect for, him and Cameron Brannagan will lead this football club in I hope a positive direction.”
Another Defeat for Oxford United
Oxford’s week(s) continue to disappoint as the U’s suffered their heaviest defeat of the season against Bristol Rovers.
The Gas ran out 3-0 winners at Grenoble Road meaning Oxford have picked up just one point from a possible 24 and have failed to keep a clean sheet in any of their last 14 matches.
Oxford United can confirm the departure of Karl Robinson who leaves his role as Head Coach at the club with immediate effect
— Oxford United FC (@OUFCOfficial) February 26, 2023
Karl Robinson Sacked After Five Years At Oxford United
The news many fans would have been hoping for came on Sunday morning as the board opted to relieve Karl Robinson from his position.
In a statement, the club said: “The board would like to thank Karl for his hard work and efforts in the five years since he joined but recent results and performances mean that a change is needed.
“The search for a new head coach will be thorough and extensive and is already underway.
“While that work is undertaken the existing coaching staff of Craig Short, Leon Blackmore-Such and Wayne Brown will take charge of the First Team with their immediate focus being our next game, away at Lincoln City on Saturday.”
