Oxford United’s pre-season preparations have been boosted by the confirmation of a training camp and a match in Austria.

And they look set to be well supported, with fans booking flights within minutes of yesterday’s announcement.

The trip includes a friendly on Tuesday, July 14 against SC Wiener Neustadt, who need to win their final game of the season tomorrow to preserve their top-flight status.

United’s squad will fly out after their opening friendly of pre-season, at Didcot Town on July 11 and return the following weekend.

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Several dozen supporters are expected to follow the team and effort will be made to get them involved.

They will be able to attend an open training session, while there is also an evening event planned.

Mark Ashton, United’s chief executive, said: “We’re delighted to announce the trip.

“We will be putting together details on how fans can get out and watch the game.

Ashton was quick to stress it would not be a holiday, though.

“It’s really important to say it’s not a tour, it’s a training camp with a game,” he said.

“This is about preparation for the season and it’s a very serious working environment for the players.”

It will be the first time United, whose only overnight stay last summer was at Bisham Abbey, have spent time overseas since tours to the USA in 2011 and 2012.

The distance and cost meant only a handful of fans could make those trips, but this summer’s itinerary has been enthusiastically welcomed.

Supporters trust OxVox have compiled a travel pack with the Yellow Army for those considering the trip.

Jeremy Faulkner, OxVox chair-man, was busy researching flights yesterday and said: “Oxford United in Europe is a wonderful thought.

“It’s a training camp, but the great thing here is the club have considered the fans.

“I’ve no idea how many will go, but I wouldn’t be surprised if there was 100-200.”

U’s boss Michael Appleton believes the time spent off the field will be just as important as the work done on it.

He said: “It’s an opportunity to integrate the new faces into the team. When you’re in those environments away, you can find out what the players are about.”