This week in our Oxford United weekly round-up, we look at the goings-on off the field at Grenoble Road. The U’s have reportedly rejected a bid from Bristol City over a move for defender Rob Atkinson while there has been a reshuffle with the club’s backroom staff.
Oxford United Weekly Round-Up: Rejected Bids and Changes in Backroom Team
Robins Rejected for Rob Atkinson
On Tuesday, Gregor MacGregor reported that Bristol City had tabled a £1.4 million bid for defender, Rob Atkinson. However, later that day, reports suggested that the offer had been rejected.
The 22-year-old, who first attracted interest from the Championship club last week, has also piqued interest from Scottish Premiership side Celtic. As a result, the Robins’ made an offer but it was turned away by the club.
Oxford have placed a valuation of £2 million for the defender, who was named in the League One Team of the Season last year.
Harrison Move Unlikely
Two weeks ago, Oxford United were linked with a move for Portsmouth forward, Ellis Harrison. However, a move now looks in doubt.
Neil Allen for The News has reported that Pompey’s potential replacement has signed elsewhere as Jayden Stockley penned a permanent deal with Charlton Athletic, leaving the South Coast club to halt any pending transfer.
Oxford United Backroom Changes
It’s been a positive week for the club behind the scenes. On Friday, news was released announcing that manager Karl Robinson and assistant Craig Short will be joined in the dugout by Leon Blackmore-Such, who stepped up from his role as lead PDP Coach.
During his time in the role, Blackmore-Such guided the U18 side to two league titles in three seasons.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Robinson said: “Leon is an outstanding coach and did really well when he stepped up to work with the First Team last season. He is bright and innovative, works extremely hard and fully deserves a chance to make his mark with the First Team.”
Blackmore-Such added: “I’m grateful for the opportunity. First and foremost I want to thank the manager and Craig and all the staff for supporting me and giving me the chance.
“I started out part-time 13 years ago, joined full time nine years ago and I have been fortunate to work with so many fantastic people who have helped and supported me along the way.
“We all work together, and that is so important, so it is great to show once again that there is a clear pathway for people within the football club.”
“I enjoyed working with the first team last season and can’t wait to get started again next week when we start training again and get ready for an exciting new season.”
In addition, Andy Caton has joined the first team’s medical staff, while former U’s defender Darren Purse has joined Chris Hackett in coaching the U19 side.
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