Des Buckingham Reflects on “Dream” Role After Oxford United Dismissal

Des Buckingham, the recently dismissed Oxford United manager who guided the team to the Championship through play-off promotion, stated he “would have loved the opportunity” to continue his tenure and aim to keep the U’s in the Championship this season. His comments came in a message posted on his X account on Monday, following his dismissal by the club on Sunday. Buckingham expressed his deep personal connection to the role, saying: “Managing my boyhood club was always a dream of mine and as such I want to thank the board for giving me an opportunity that was so close to my heart.” He highlighted the significance of the team’s achievement, noting: “Last season’s promotion created memories that myself, my family and no doubt the fans will never forget.” Reflecting on his mandate, Buckingham remarked: “I was brought into the club to try to get it into the Championship and hopefully I’ve left it in a better place than when I arrived.” Despite his desire to continue, he acknowledged the club’s decision: “I would have loved the opportunity to achieve this season’s objective of staying up but I respect the club’s decision to part ways and go in a different direction.” He extended gratitude to the team, stating: “I would like to thank the players and staff for their dedication and commitment during my time, they’re both a credit to themselves and this football club.” Buckingham conveyed his pride in their collective efforts, adding: “I’m immensely proud of what we were able to achieve in such a short period of time.” Concluding his message, he thanked the supporters: “Finally, I’d like to thank the fans for their support of both myself and the players, which was vital in getting us into the Championship for the first time in 25 years.” He ended with a personal note to the fanbase: “I’ll always be one of you. Yellows!”