Oxford United's former midfielder Mark Sykes has been released by Championship club Bristol City. Sykes, who joined Bristol City in 2022 after a successful three-year spell at Oxford United, was among three players let go following the appointment of new head coach Michael Skubala. During his time at Oxford, Sykes made 136 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing 21 assists, including a key goal in the 2020 League One play-off final against Wycombe Wanderers. The Belfast-born player arrived at Oxford in 2019 from Glenavon and quickly became a fan favorite. After his move to Bristol City, Sykes continued to impress, making 153 appearances and scoring 18 goals. Now at 28, he is being linked with several Championship clubs, including Preston North End and Blackburn Rovers, as he looks for his next opportunity. Sykes expressed gratitude to Bristol City fans on social media, reflecting on his time there as a rewarding experience.