OXFORD City boss Mark Jones has been swept along by a rollercoaster of emotions during his side’s remarkable Emirates FA Cup run, writes KIEREN BUSHNELL.

He takes his side to Notts County tomorrow as City bid to pull off another massive cup shock.

Jones, who had spells coaching at Stevenage and Watford before taking the City job at the start of this season, cannot wait to take his place in the dug-out at Meadow Lane.

“It’s without a doubt the biggest game I’ve ever been involved in, either as a manager, player or coach,” he said.

“Although I’m still relatively young, I’ve been coaching for a long time.

“I certainly feel I’ve worked hard to get the qualifications to be in this position.”

The 38-year-old, whose side have struggled in Vanarama National League South this season, has been inundated with interview requests since masterminding City’s 1-0 victory over Colchester United in round one.

“Not many coaches at this level ever get to experience this,” he said.

“I am in such a privileged position, and it’s one I intend to make the most of.

“I have to thank the club for sticking by me and giving me the chance that they have.

“There was a lot of pressure on me earlier in the season for the bad run.

“When things are going well, it’s easy for people to pat you on the back and say ‘well done’, but through that difficult spell the club have offered me nothing but total backing.

“I’ve kept my dignity throughout the run, and have always given my honest opinions of where we are at as a team.”

Jones is renowned for staying calm and methodical, but underneath there is a man with utmost determination to succeed.

“I don’t like bigging myself up,” he said.

“But I do prepare for every game very thoroughly. We are all very professional. A lot of work goes on behind the scenes which is unnoticed by supporters, but is very important.

“I’m still learning – I always will be I guess – but with my management team we just want to continue the work that we have started. I’m very confident we have a lot to look forward to.”

The unassuming Jones has enjoyed the limelight, and he realises only too well the magnitude of what he has achieved this year.

“We as a team have already made history,” he said.

“As a manager, one thing I’ve learned is the good feeling you get when you win, be that a cup game or league, doesn’t last as long as the bad one does when you lose.

“But I think this cup run will be something that sticks with me.

“In many years’ time, when I have grandchildren, it will be nice to look back on it with fondness.

“Right now, though, all I’m focused on is producing a team capable of giving it their best shot on Saturday.”