OXFORD United’s approach to the final stages of the transfer window will continue as planned, despite the sacking of manager Pep Clotet.

The January market closes at 11pm next Wednesday and the U’s, who have lost their last three games, are looking to reinforce the squad.

Derek Fazackerley was put in caretaker charge following Clotet’s departure on Monday – and unless United make a swift appointment, the new man will not be in place until after the window shuts.

While the ultimate decision rested with the manager, the recruitment department have been unaffected by the changes this week.

Chairman Darryl Eales is out of the country, but has made it clear there is scope for new signings and Fazackerley expects judgements will be formed by a collective effort.

He said: “We’ve always worked as a group of people.

“At Oxford United I think it’s common knowledge we’ve got a decent recruitment team.

“We’ve done well over the last three-and-a-half years and the manager always has the final say when it comes to bringing players in or letting them out.

“At the moment, as we haven’t really got a permanent manager, there will be a group of people that will sit down and see if there is someone out there who can help us a little bit.

“We’ve got the green light from Darryl to try to bring players in who we think will improve the squad and give us a little bit more strength and pace.”

The discussions over the next few days are unlikely to be solely about bringing players in.

Barnsley and Preston North End have shown interest in Simon Eastwood and Ryan Ledson respectively, while Blackburn Rovers are rumoured to be looking at Joe Rothwell, who is out of contract in the summer.

Fazackerley said: “There’s quite a number of players at our club being linked with things at this moment in time.

“Over the next couple of days we’ll be having a meeting to find out exactly what’s going on.

“We’re reluctant of course to release any of our players, but speculation at this time of year is rife and we’ll have to see where it takes us.”

Fazackerley also confirmed United are unable to recall Kane Hemmings from Mansfield Town, with the deadline having passed earlier this month.

  • UNITED'S Oxfordshire Senior Cup clash at Ardley United last night was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. It will now be played next Tuesday.