Des Buckingham’s sacking from Oxford United has proven a controversial one.
The 39-year-old led the U’s to promotion by defeating Bolton Wanderers in the League One play-offs last season but have struggled for results in the Championship, leaving them 20th on the table.
While some feel it was time for a change, others felt his achievements thus far merited more time at the helm.
Connor Penfold from The Manor podcast is among the latter.
“My initial reaction when I saw the news break was shock, disbelief and a little bit of anger as well,” Penfold told the 72+ podcast.
“After the game on Saturday, I reinforced the point that I’d be quite happy to get relegated under Des Buckingham’s leadership so to see his sacking less than 24 hours later, I was very surprised.”
The connection between the fans and Buckingham, a boyhood Oxford United fan, is evident.
Even his emotional exit statement tugged at the heart strings of the U’s faithful, adding yet more weight to his departure.
“We created that incredible report with him – he was one of us,” Penfold added.
“Unfortunately, the board took the decision they have done and there are reasons for that. But I don’t think that was the right choice.
“Oxford are not in the relegation zone but he’s got the sack. This is a manager who got you promoted six months ago. I just do not get it.”
You can listen to Connor’s full reaction on BBC Sounds.
