Matt Bloomfield has paid tribute to his Oxford United squad, insisting the players gave their all in a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful battle to avoid Championship relegation.

The U's fate was sealed before their final-day 2-0 defeat at Millwall, but Bloomfield—who took over in January—can hold his head high after steering the team to 25 points from his 21 games in charge. It was a spirited fightback that kept hope alive until the very end, even if the numbers didn't quite fall their way.

"I think we were up against a very, very good team who showed in every element of their performance why they are where they are and why they have the chance of getting into the Premier League," Bloomfield told BBC Radio Oxford. "We weren't at our best, but considering the circumstances, it was always going to be a tough test."

Despite the disappointment, the manager was quick to praise the unwavering support from the stands. "Our supporters have been incredible. They are an amazing group—you can see how much pride they take in their football club. A massive thank you to them."

Reflecting on the season's end, Bloomfield added: "The players care a lot. They've given us everything over the last four months since I've been in the building. We're terribly disappointed to come up short, but I don't think that's through a lack of effort. Everyone has given it everything they've got—unfortunately, it just wasn't quite enough to stay in the division."

For Oxford United, it's back to the drawing board in League One, but with that level of commitment and a fanbase that bleeds yellow and blue, the foundation is there for a strong return.