Manning confirmed as manager of Dons’ rivals Oxford United

Liam Manning has been confirmed as manager of Oxford United, taking over from another former MK Dons manager Karl Robinson.

The 37-year-old was sacked after 16-months at Stadium MK, where he led Dons to third place in League One in his first campaign.

Manning carried the can for Dons’ poor form in the run up to Christmas, departing in December.

He was heavily linked with the vacant Portsmouth job, which was eventually taken up by former Oxford defender John Mousinho, before taking over at the Kassam Stadium in a move which was confirmed this morning (Saturday).

Oxford, who have picked up a single point - ironically against MK Dons - from their last 10 games, sit 18th, and Manning hopes to guide the U’s to safety this season.

Speaking on his appointment, he said: “I thank the Board for showing faith in me and I want to repay that, first of all by ensuring the team pull away from any immediate danger and then by being part of a very exciting period in the club’s history.

“Oxford has amazing fans home and away, there are big plans for the future of the club and I can’t wait to get started.”

Oxford take on Derby County at the Kassam Stadium today, but Manning, along with assistant Chris Hogg, will not take charge, with that responsibility left to caretaker boss Craig Short.