It was a mixed week for Oxford United as the U’s lost by a big scoreline in the Carabao Cup before picking up their first point of the season.
Elsewhere, some of Gary Rowett’s squad have been called up for international duty.
Read More: Three Talking Points as Oxford United Draw Against Coventry
Oxford United Weekly Round-Up: Carabao Cup Exit and Point Against Coventry
Brighton Batter the U’s in the Cup
On Wednesday, Oxford suffered their heaviest ever defeat in the League Cup as Gary Rowett’s side lost 6-0 at home against Brighton.
Defensively, the U’s struggled from start to finish, conceding twice in the first half and a further four after the restart.
However, Oxford did look more threatening in front of goal but a combination of poor finishing and good goalkeeping meant the U’s could not find the back of the net themselves.
Harris Called Up to Wales Squad
U’s striker Mark Harris was called up to represent Wales in their upcoming international fixtures against Kazakhstan and Canada.
Wales make the trip to Kazakhstan for a World Cup qualifier before welcoming Canada in an international friendly.
The Red Dragons sit second in their group on seven points but beat Kazakhstan at the Cardiff City Stadium on matchday one.
More Call-Ups
On Friday, there was a flurry of international call-ups with three U’s players being selected.
Firstly, on loan midfielder Luke Harris was called up to represent Wales U21s in their Euro U21 Qualifier against Denmark, before Will Lankshear was selected for England’s U21 squad for their clash in the same competition against Kazakhstan.
Finally, Greg Leigh was announced as part of Steve McClaren’s Jamaica side to face Bermuda and Trinidad and Tobago in World Cup qualifiers.
Jon Clarke to Depart Oxford United
Stadium Development Director Jonathon Clarke made the decision to leave the club on Friday following the club’s approval for a new stadium.
Reflecting on his time at the club, Clarke said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to help guide Oxford United through such a transformative period.
“With planning approval now secured, I’m confident that the team in place are the best people to take this project forward into its next phase. I leave knowing the future of the stadium is in excellent hands.”
Oxford United Chief Executive Officer, Tim Williams, added: “We’re incredibly grateful to Jon for everything he’s done over the past five years.
“His work has laid the foundation for the club’s future, and thanks to his input, we have a plan in place to deliver the next stage of this landmark project.”
First Point of the Season
On Saturday, Oxford picked up their first point of the season with an entertaining 2-2 draw against high-flyers Coventry.
The U’s came from behind twice against Frank Lampard’s side. First, Will Lankshear pounced on a rebound after Cameron Brannagan’s free kick was saved before the latter netted from a set piece in the second half to earn a point.
