ROB Dickie says much of his improvement in the past 18 months has been down to Oxford United boss Karl Robinson.

The centre back has been one of the stand-out performers in a terrific campaign and was voted player of the season by U’s supporters.

He captained the team during the play-off semi-final success against Portsmouth and is set to do so again for the final at Wembley against Wycombe Wanderers.

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Dickie, though, does not believe his progress could have been so rapid without Robinson.

“I love playing for him,” he said.

“The way I play I take a certain amount of risk playing out from the back, but it’s something he really encourages.

“I feel quite lucky because there’s not many managers at this level who do that, but the way he and I see football really marries up.

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“It’s a pleasure to play for him because he really trusts you.”

And Robinson’s style is appreciated well beyond the pitch.

Dickie said: “Not only is he an amazing coach, but he really cares for everyone.

“You can’t help but want to do well for him as well. I think he brings out the best in a lot of people.”