Oxford United's League One opener: Ramsey praises squad quality
Oxford United head coach Aaron Ramsey is pleased with the quality of his squad ahead of their League One opener against MK Dons. The U's take on the newly-promoted side at the Kassam Stadium on Saturday after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Leyton Orient in the Carabao Cup last week.
Why it matters for Oxford United
Ramsey is looking for his first competitive win in charge of United after being appointed head coach in June. Despite a transfer embargo, which has seen them unable to register any new players in the summer transfer window, Ramsey is confident in his team's ability to compete.
What comes next?
Oxford face a well-backed Dons side who have invested heavily in the summer and are expected to compete at the top end of the table after promotion from League Two last season. Under experienced manager Paul Warne, Ramsey's Yellows will have a tough challenge in their first fixture.
Oxford United's recent form has been inconsistent, with a 2-0 loss to Millwall in their last outing (2026-05-02) and a recent form record of 2W-0D-3L (LWLLW). However, Ramsey remains optimistic about his team's chances, citing the quality of his squad and the progress of the younger players.
"We've got a good squad, and I'm confident we can compete with anyone," Ramsey said. "We've got a few players missing from the last squad, but I feel like this squad is why I came here, to work with them."
The transfer embargo
The transfer embargo has limited Oxford's ability to strengthen their squad, but Ramsey is confident that his team can still compete. "We've got a good squad, and I'm confident we can compete with anyone," he said.
The upcoming match
Oxford United face MK Dons at the Kassam Stadium on Saturday, and Ramsey is expecting a tough challenge. "They're very well-drilled in what they do," he said. "We're going to have to be really active tomorrow, doing all the things out of possession as well."
Recent form
Oxford United's recent form has been inconsistent, with a 2-0 loss to Millwall in their last outing (2026-05-02) and a recent form record of 2W-0D-3L (LWLLW). However, Ramsey remains optimistic about his team's chances, citing the quality of his squad and the progress of the younger players.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 22nd in Championship, 47 pts, 11W-14D-21L from 46 games, recent form LWLLW. Goals this season: 45 scored, 59 conceded (-14 goal difference). Title race: 48 points behind leaders Coventry.
