RICHARD Blackmore has left Oxford United after 17 years in the club's coaching set-up.

The most recent of his wide variety of roles has been as general manager at the U's academy.

He said: “I have loved my time at the club and it has been a massive part of my life for so long, but I feel the time is right to move on and find a new challenge.

"I am privileged to have met so many fantastic people along the way and particularly proud of the work we have done to develop the women’s team and the pathway for talented young footballers to make their way all the way through to the first team.

“I’d like to thank everyone for their help and friendship over the years and wish the club well for the future.”

Darryl Eales, United's chairman, said: “Richard has worked extremely hard behind the scenes and we are going to miss him.

"On behalf of everyone at the club we thank him for everything he has done and wish him well in whatever he chooses to do next.

"He remains a true friend of the club and is welcome back anytime.”