Oxford United say that head coach Des Buckingham has left his role as head coach.

After an encouraging start to the campaign the U’s have struggled in recent weeks and have dropped to within a point of the Championship relegation zone.

Buckingham was appointed in November 2023 and led the club to promotion from League One via a play-off final victory at the end of last season.

“The club would like to place on record its thanks to Des for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future,” said a club statement.

“The appointment of a new head coach will be confirmed in due course.”

The U’s lost 3-1 at home to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, despite Greg Leigh giving them a17th-minute lead, and next weekend will travel to face promotion- chasing Leeds United.