Oxford United chairman adresses ‘challenges’ in statement update

The chair, who was appointed as Grant Ferguson’s successor in May, has addressed the ‘challenges’ the club has faced this summer.

The U’s changed head coach in June, replacing Matt Bloomfield with former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey, before being hit with a temporary transfer embargo for breaching Squad Cost Management Protocol (SCMP) regulations.

Bogdanovic issued two statements on the club website in June as frustration and confusion grew among supporters following the embargo.

Oxford begin their League One campaign against MK Dons at 3PM on Saturday after suffering relegation from the Championship last season.

In the new statement, Bogdanovic said: “It is a genuine privilege for me to be here in Oxford, alongside so many of you, as we get the new League One campaign off and running back at the Kassam Stadium.

“I want to begin by addressing the challenges the club have faced this summer.

“I know it has not been an easy few months and I understand the concerns you may have.

“I want to be very clear and open with you: the current situation is short-term, and it will be resolved.

Ipswich Town’s Chuba Akpom (centre, right) and Oxford United’s Brodie Spencer (centre, left) battle for the ball (Image: Adam Davy/PA Wire)

“Our owners remain as dedicated as ever to Oxford United and we are working hard, and positively, to move things forward as quickly as possible.

“It will take a few months, with the aim to be compliant and in a strong position ahead of the January transfer window. 

“Our commitment to this club has not changed.

“We may not always get things right, but we will always make decisions that we believe are in the best interests of Oxford United.

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“We have a very competitive squad, and the focus this summer has been on retaining the core of our squad and building a platform that give Aaron the best chance to deliver long-term success. 

“Despite the setbacks, there is so much happening around the club that gives me real optimism for the season ahead.

“In Aaron, we have one of the most exciting young head coaches in the country.

“He is building a team with a clear identity and style of play, and a genuine ambition to win.

“I have been hugely encouraged by what I have seen in preparation for this campaign and believe supporters will enjoy watching this squad develop as the season progresses.

“There will be highs and there will be lows along the way, that is simply part of what makes this sport so special, and so unpredictable.

“I cannot promise you guaranteed results, no chairman honestly can, but what I can promise is that everyone at this club, from the coaching staff to those working behind the scenes, will continue to work as hard as possible for you.”

The full statement is available to read at length on United’s website.