An emotional Dave Langan said he would always have a special bond with Oxford United after receiving a standing ovation at the Kassam Stadium.

The former Republic of Ireland international attended Saturday’s game with Chesterfield to hand over his Milk Cup and Division 2 winner’s medals.

It came after supporters had raised more than £5,000 in four weeks to help ease the United legend’s financial worries.

Events on the day increased the amount to £5,500, which has allowed Langan to move into a mobile home in Peterborough with his wife, Dawn.

The 56-year-old admitted it was hard to hold back the tears during the handing-over ceremony.

He said: “I have been at a few clubs, but the only one that has ever been there for me is Oxford. They will always have a special place in my heart.

“It was very difficult to hold it together, because I couldn’t believe the reception I got.

“The supporters did me proud and I can’t thank them enough. I was struggling to hand the medals over, but I had to do it because the fans were good enough to raise the money.

“I can see them whenever I want and it will be nice for them to be seen by supporters.”

Langan will use some of the money to clear outstanding debts and also intends to put other trophies and his international caps up for auction to improve his situation.

The medals he won playing for the U’s were also due to be auctioned off, but the fundraising campaign organised by supporters trust OxVox rescued them from being sold to a collector.

They will instead be on permanent display at the club and on matchdays will be on show in the 12th Man Bar.

Mark Sennett, OxVox chairman, said: “Not only has Dave got a home to live in now, but he knows the medals are safe and others can enjoy them.”

Langan attended a function at the training ground after the game as part of the Yellow Army Day, which raised money for United’s transfer kitty.