The best Oxford United centre back partnership of the past 20 years will join forces again at the Kassam Stadium next month.

Matt Elliott and Phil Gilchrist have confirmed they will take part in the ‘Two Legends – One Match’ testimonial/benefit for Joey Beauchamp and David Langan on Friday, July 8.

The duo formed the backbone of United’s defence as they surged to automatic promotion from Division 2 in 1995-96, conceding just 39 goals in the league and losing only once in their last 17 games to claim second place, one point ahead of Blackpool.

“Those were good times to be at the club,” said Gilchrist, now 37. “We had a good team and some great banter in the dressing room.

“I forged a good partnership with Matt – he was solid at the back, although I did all his running for him.”

“I’ve no problem with Gilly saying that,” responded Elliott, 42. “I’m happy to let others do my running for me.

“We complemented each other well – I put the tackles and headers in and Phil had the strength and pace to pick up the pieces. We just clicked.”

The Malcolm Shotton/Gary Briggs partnership was arguably the best in the club’s history, playing together for three seasons in Division 1, but Elliott and Gilchrist also made their mark in the top flight after leaving Oxford, and were not far behind.

Elliott captained Leicester City to the 2000 League Cup, scoring both goals in the final, and went on to win 18 caps for Scotland.

The pair played together in the Premiership for Leicester.

“Martin O’Neill asked me about Gilly,” said Elliott, “and I was happy to recommend him.”

Both defenders were full of praise for talented U’s winger Beauchamp.

“He was a great player,” claimed Gilchrist.

“His combination with Paul Moody and Stuart Massey was very important to us winning promotion. I didn’t have a lot of interplay with him on the pitch, but I managed to kick him a few times in training!”

Elliott said: “Joey was highly talented. His delivery at set pieces was second to none.”

Gilchrist has now hung up his boots, but he’s happy to don them again.

“I’m looking forward to the game. It’ll be nice to have a kickabout with Matty again, as he’s probably my best mate in football.”

“It should be a great occasion,” said Elliott. “Joey and Dave are both Oxford heroes and I’m happy to make an effort on their behalf.”

Other former U’s players already confirmed for the match include Shotton, Trevor Hebberd, Alan Judge and Paul Powell.

Tickets will be available from the United ticket office on 01865 337533 or online at www.oufctickets.co.uk.