Oxford United boss opens up on transfer ban & squad absences

The former Arsenal and Premier League icon has been in charge of the U’s for almost four weeks after taking over from Matt Bloomfield.

United are currently in Spain for a warm-weather training camp ahead of the 2026/27 League One season.

Oxford were hit with the transfer ban last week meaning they are temporarily banned from registering any new players.

The club have stated that they will be in a strong position ahead of the January transfer window.

“I can empathise with the fans – the frustration and things in that situation and maybe not having that clarity – but from my perspective, nothing changes,” the former Wales international said.

Aaron Ramsey during a Wales training session (Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire)

“I’m really excited to work with this group of players. The way that I work and my staff work, I feel like there’s a lot of room for improvement as well.

“We’re fully committed to this. It’s just bringing everybody together to make sure we have a successful season, but also I’m calm and confident.

“I’m reassured that this situation will be resolved as quickly as possible.”

Ramsey also touched on the absences of winger Stan Mills and new signing Frankie Kent from the squad in Spain.

Kent has been confirmed to be out of action for a number of months after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury after only joining the club last month.

“We’re really gutted about Frankie’s situation,” the 35-year-old Yellows boss continued.

“He’s a really positive character, really excited to work with him, but sometimes these things happen in football, but we’re right behind him. We’ll stand by him through this difficult time and I’m sure he’ll be back before we know it.

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Stan Mills in action for Oxford United (Image: Mike Allen)

“Stan had an illness earlier on in the week, so the doc’s been monitoring that back at home.

“We feel like it’s best now that he gains a little bit of fitness back there, but I’m excited for him to re-join the group now on Monday.”

Ramsey added two new faces to his coaching staff recently in former Wales teammate Chris Gunter and ex-Cardiff City Under-18s lead coach Tom Hutton.

“I always knew [Gunter] was destined to go on and become a great coach as well.

“He understands it from the player’s perspective. He’s really detailed and has a great energy about him as well.

Oxford United have confirmed two key appointments to their coaching staff (Image: Oxford United)

 “The way he sees the game is exactly the way that I see the game.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to have been starting my coaching journey with the Cardiff 18s and seeing the way that [Hutton] works.

“I was blown away by his detail and the way that he sees the game and the way that he can transform that onto the grass.

“I think they’re great additions for us and so far, I think the boys have bought into them.”