Oxford United Appoints Matt Bloomfield as New Head Coach
Oxford United has appointed Matt Bloomfield as their new head coach.
The 41-year-old coach has been out of work since being dismissed from his position at Luton Town in October. He takes over from Gary Rowett, who was let go on December 23 after a disappointing run of just one win in ten matches.
Currently, Oxford United sits at 23rd in the Championship, three points away from safety.
Bloomfield expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating, "This felt like the right place at the right time. Oxford United is a club with solid foundations, ambition, and a squad with significant potential, which aligns perfectly with my coaching philosophy."
He will observe Friday's FA Cup third-round match against MK Dons, with interim manager Craig Short continuing in charge until Bloomfield officially takes over next week, ahead of the match against Bristol City on January 17.
While a decision regarding Bloomfield's coaching staff will be made in due course, the club has not disclosed the duration of his contract.
Bloomfield added, "I want my teams to work hard, attack with purpose, and play with a clear identity. Everyone must understand their role, be accountable, and deliver consistently."
Bloomfield began his managerial career at Colchester United before succeeding Gareth Ainsworth at Wycombe Wanderers in 2023. He led Wycombe to the League One automatic promotion places last season, despite competition from financially strong teams like Birmingham City and Wrexham. However, he was unable to prevent Luton's back-to-back relegations to the third tier and was dismissed after a disappointing start to this season, with the club sitting 11th in the table.
In January, Oxford United has already strengthened their squad by signing two new players: midfielder Jamie Donley, 20, on loan from Tottenham Hotspur for the remainder of the season, and Myles Peart-Harris from Brentford on a short-term deal.
The U's will face four league matches—against Bristol City, Queens Park Rangers, Leicester City, and Birmingham City—within a 15-day period later this month.
Ed Waldron, Oxford's head of football operations, remarked, "Matt stood out for his attention to detail, work ethic, and strong belief in building success the right way. He has a very clear vision of how he wants his teams to play. He has a proven track record of developing both teams and individuals through strong leadership and communication, and we believe he is the right person to strengthen the group now and in the future."