Oxford United head coach Matt Bloomfield is staying positive despite the club's relegation from the Championship, expressing confidence that he'll remain at the helm for their League One campaign next season.
The U's two-year stint in the second tier came to an end on Saturday, when Charlton's victory over Hull City sealed their fate. Bloomfield, who took over from Gary Rowett in January, injected some energy and delivered encouraging performances, but ultimately couldn't steer the team clear of the drop zone.
"Yes, I'm confident," Bloomfield told BBC Radio Oxford when asked about his job security. "I've enjoyed my time at the club. It's obviously not been the outcome that we wanted for the season. We've been pleasantly content with some of the improvements we have made, but ultimately we wanted to stay in the league."
The 40-year-old manager acknowledged the emotional toll of the situation but remains focused on the task ahead. "I've not given much thought to my job and the bigger situation. As a manager or head coach, all you can do is focus on being the best you can be."
There was a glimmer of hope in late February and early March, when Oxford won three consecutive matches to climb to 21st place, sparking talk of a "great escape." But just two wins in their next eight games saw them lose momentum and slip behind their rivals.
For context, Oxford's rise to the Championship came via the League One playoffs in 2024 under Des Buckingham. Bloomfield now hopes to replicate that success and lead the U's back up from the third tier. He feels the board has his back, adding, "I've not heard anything to the contrary. I keep doing my job. I don't know anything else, so I keep working."
With planning already underway alongside sporting director Ed Waldron, Bloomfield is looking ahead. "We've spent lots of time together this week, talking about everything around the building and the team. From my side, nothing's changed—as a head coach, I keep working."
For Oxford fans, the message is clear: Bloomfield isn't throwing in the towel. He's ready to rebuild, and with the right gear and grit, the U's could be back in the Championship sooner than later.
