How Matt Bloomfield Could Shape Oxford United's Survival Battle

How Matt Bloomfield Could Shape Oxford United's Survival Battle

EFL Blog

How Matt Bloomfield Could Shape Oxford United's Survival Battle

"I want a team the fans can be proud of." - In the immediate aftermath of Matt Bloomfield's appointment as the new Oxford United manager, his words were laced with intent and an apparent passion for the job he is taking on.

It is the exact sort of statement you want to hear from an incoming coach, especially one taking over such a precarious situation like that of Oxford.

But a mixed reaction from fans has seen many wondering whether Bloomfield is the right man to steer the club from looming relegation or whether he will turn out to be yet another hiring mistake by the U's hierarchy.

With the current situation, there is no doubt the task at hand is a treacherous one, but Bloomfield will be hoping he can implement his ideologies successfully and write himself into Oxford United folklore by defying what many fans deem to be an inevitable fate.


Bloomfield to This Point

Bloomfield's managerial career has seen more ups than downs thus far, with his presence in the coaching scene beginning in a short stint with Colchester in League Two.

This was followed by a return to the stomping ground where he spent his entire playing career, succeeding Gareth Ainsworth at Wycombe, where he showed much promise, including back-to-back manager of the month wins.

Bloomfield would then move to Championship strugglers Luton to try and prevent consecutive relegations but would ultimately fall agonisingly short with a 5-3 defeat on the final day against West Brom sending them to League One.

He would then be sacked the following season with Luton three points off the playoffs after a poor run of form.