Following their defeat to Sheffield Wednesday, Oxford United terminated Des Buckingham. The Owls won 3-1 at Kassam Stadium on Saturday afternoon, with to goals from Josh Windass, Jamal Lowe, and Djeidi Gassama.
After 20 games, the U’s are ranked 20th in the Championship standings. They are only one point above the relegation zone.
Buckingham’s defeat to Sheffield Wednesday proved to be the final straw. Oxford United has issued a statement on its website that reads: “Oxford United can confirm that Des Buckingham has resigned his position as Men’s First Team Head Coach. Des was appointed in November 2023, and he led the club to promotion to the EFL Sky Bet Championship at the end of the 2023-24 season.
“The Club would like to express its gratitude to Des for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well in the future. The selection of a new head coach will be announced in due course.
The U’s are winless in their previous six games and have only four wins all season. Buckingham said after their play against Sheffield Wednesday: “Goals change games, and we had several key moments to enhance our lead. I thought we deserved 1-0 and had two or three big opportunities to extend it. What we’ve learned quickly this year is that if you don’t take your chances, the opponent will – whether it’s a corner kick or a ricochet in the box that puts them ahead.
“We have worked really hard to construct, so we must finish. To then concede is a dismal outcome. I’m pleased with the first half reaction but disappointed with how the second half unfolded. When it comes to corner defense, we continue to be one of the league’s best.
“You don’t want to concede anything, but this is a decent starting point. But a scrappy one gives them hope, and the second one, we don’t have as many people falling for us right now, but that’s the how things are. It’s the way things are going; it pulls the stuffing out of you, and then things begin to open up a little bit as you chase the game.”
Oxford hired Buckingham in November of last year, and he led them to promotion from League One. They were promoted last season after winning the play-off final against Bolton Wanderers at Wembley Stadium, alongside Derby County and Portsmouth.
The 39-year-old from Oxford won 33.90% of games and must now consider his alternatives. He has previously played for Wellington Phoenix and Mumbai City, as well as coaching stints with the New Zealand national team and Melbourne City.
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