DARRYL Eales admits the timing of Michael Appleton’s departure presents him with a headache – but feels Oxford United are in a strong position to attract high-class candidates.

The formalities of the head coach’s move to former Premier League champions Leicester City were completed last night.

The decision of the 41-year-old to end his three-year stay at the Kassam Stadium to take up a No 2 role with good friend Craig Shakespeare leaves United with a headache less than two weeks before their players report back for pre-season training.

Eales paid tribute to the work done by Appleton and understood the reasons for his move.

“We are all disappointed to see Michael go, but I fully understand that the chance to work in the Premier League was an opportunity he felt he couldn’t turn down,” said Eales in a statement.

“I’d like to thank him for all his efforts at Oxford United over these past three years and he leaves with my best wishes for his future “I brought Michael in as manager the day I took over the club and I believe it is our partnership and friendship that has provided the stable foundation from which the club has progressed in the past three seasons.

“One promotion and two visits to Wembley tell their own story of the success we have achieved, and I am sure everyone at the club wishes him well at Leicester.”

Eales’s attention now turns to bringing in a replacement who he feels can continue United’s upward curve.

But he did admit the timing presents a problem when it comes to bringing in new signings.

“Our priority now is to appoint a new manager who will continue our excellent progression and will build on our strong platform which will lead us towards our promotion to the Championship,” he added.

“We have stability across an excellent coaching and recruitment team, we have an outstanding squad of young players, and, contrary to rumours, we have funds available to strengthen the squad.

“The timing is not exactly perfect, as it does hamper our recruitment plans in the short term but, once the new manager is appointed, we will move quickly to strengthen the squad even further.”

He added: “Oxford United is seen throughout the game as an attractive, progressive club, and I am sure we will attract a high-quality candidate who will develop our positive playing philosophy and focus on the development of young players.

“The Board would like to thank fans for their patience and understanding and for the countless messages of support.

“The future remains bright as we continue to build on the progress since 2014 and we should all look forward to an exciting and successful 2017/18 campaign.”