DARRYL Eales says he expects Oxford United’s playing budget to be increased next season to maintain the club’s ambition of reaching the Sky Bet Championship.

The statement is part of a wide-ranging set of programme notes for tonight’s game against Bolton Wanderers, where the U’s chairman seeks to “minimise inaccurate rumour which often takes on the appearance of fact”.

The club remain hopeful of a late charge for the League One play-offs, but Michael Appleton admitted last week they had started planning for life in the third tier next season.

United’s head coach has highlighted the need for a larger squad if they are going to fulfil the aim of a second promotion in quick succession – and Eales stressed the club’s ambitions are in alignment.

He wrote: “We have an outstanding manager and we have significantly invested in the squad.

“Our playing budget has been increased this season and is competitive in League One.

“Maintaining this is sacrosanct and I expect it to be increased next season.

“I hope this lays to rest any speculation that there is any risk to the playing budget “Our aspiration is promotion to the Championship. This is why Michael Appleton and his team are so central to our ambition for the club.”

Eales’s central theme of the notes is unity, emphasising the need to look ahead with confidence.

The U’s owner also stressed the relationship with supporters’ trust OxVox was open, honest and friendly as they attempt to agree a deal to purchase the Kassam Stadium from landlords Firoka.

Eales said: “We have agreed that only OxVox will comment on the stadium while the discussions with Firoka and the council are continuing.

“On all other matters, it is business as usual.

“There are natural areas of debate and differences of perspective but we are completely aligned in seeking to do the best for the club.”

Eales also gave an update on discussions over setting up a new training base.

He said: “We are close to signing the contract with Oxford City and the council to jointly operate the stadium at Court Place Farm.

“This will hopefully include a new 4G pitch, a new home for Oxford Women FC and, in time, a permanent base for our first team.

“With a small staff of people in a complex, fast-moving operation, I believe we are a well-run club with much to be optimistic about.”