OXFORD United’s players have returned to training today for the first time since Des Buckingham was controversially sacked.
Buckingham was dismissed on Sunday afternoon, less than 24 hours after United’s 3-1 defeat at home to Sheffield Wednesday.
The U’s squad was on a pre-planned day off yesterday, but returned to the training ground this morning.
Without Buckingham to lead the sessions, assistant coaches Craig Short and Chris Hackett, plus goalkeeping coach Lewis Price, oversaw training.
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Although he is not in interim charge this time, Short is no stranger to taking charge, having twice last year been caretaker boss following the departures of Karl Robinson and Liam Manning.
Hackett stepped up from the academy into a first team assistant coaching role last season, while Price was well-regarded by Buckingham.
The former Wales international goalkeeper was involved in sessions for United’s outfield players, as well as the goalkeeping department, while Buckingham was head coach.
A replacement for Buckingham is expected to be in place for the trip to Leeds United on Saturday, as the U’s, with just one victory in 15 Sky Bet Championship games, make the daunting visit to a Leeds side boasting the best home record in the division.
The Whites have won nine and drawn one of their first 11 league games at Elland Road this season.