Analysis – Jerome Sale, Oxford United commentator at BBC Radio Oxford
Ramsey joins a growing list of young EFL managers.
If Oxford fans are concerned about lack of experience, they may take heart in the recent League One success of rookie managers like John Mousinho and Michael Skubala – even Ramsey’s former Arsenal team-mate Jack Wilshere.
But even though his playing career only officially ended in April, you can make a case that Ramsey has been a manager in waiting for some time.
Without exception, Oxford’s successes over the years have been delivered by bosses who had low-key playing careers.
Whether by accident or design though, the U’s may have recruited a new head coach whose identity should play well in both markets.
A big enough name for the owner, but surely not big enough to prefix the club’s name in every media report.
I understand Oxford have spoken a lot internally about playing identity.
Fans and the board will be united in wanting to see a more front-foot U’s attack in League One after two seasons of battling to survive in the Championship.
The timing of the change of management has been questioned – more than a month and a half after the season ended.
The Oxford players are back for pre-season training in a matter of days, and while there’s a new face in the manager’s office there are zero in the dressing room.
In addition to having input into plans for new signings, Ramsey may have to settle one or two of the existing squad who could be restless after a relegation and, now, a change of manager.
