Paul Davis believes he is the man to lead Banbury United back to the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division next season, after seeing his side relegated following a 1-0 defeat at Chesham United on Saturday.

An impending move to have the Puritans transformed into a Community Benefit Society run by the Banbury United Supporters’ Club has raised questions over who will manage the side next season.

But the current incumbent believes he has done enough to be given another opportunity.

“Obviously the ownership issue is up in the air and that, at every football club, starts rumours,” said Davis.

“When clubs change owners they sometimes want a fresh start and if that’s the case I’ll be disappointed, because I’ve not even had a full season.

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“I believe that with a full season I can keep most of that dressing room together and we can have a go at coming straight back.”

Davis was appointed manager last September after the Puritans lost their opening six league matches.

And although he was ultimately unable to stave off relegation, Davis feels his side have plenty to be proud of after a testing campaign.

He said: “With the financial situation at the football club, it’s nothing short of a miracle that we finished third bottom, let alone have come here with a chance of staying up.

“The team that finished bottom have had 500 quid a week more than us and by rights we should have finished bottom of the league.

“I just want the opportunity to turn it around next season.”