OXFORD United have a shortlist of six for their manager’s job – and are halfway through the interview process.

Darryl Eales told the Oxford Mail today the quality of candidates has been ‘absolutely superb’ and all three people they have spoken to are still in the running to take charge.

Pep Clotet, Frank Lampard and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink are the three front-runners with bookmakers.

But the United chairman said he would not comment on any individuals linked with the role.

“We are 50 per cent of the way through interviews,” Eales said.

“There has been an absolutely superb quality of candidates.

“They have all been well prepared, knowledgeable about the club, very complimentary about the club, the supporter base and the progress we have made over the last three years.

“Most importantly, they have been very clear on how they can help us realise our ambition of getting into the Championship.”

He added: “I think they are all serious contenders.

"Every interview I have done, I have come out thinking ‘I’ll appoint them’.”