Hoops sack manager as former boss makes sensational return

Cox was appointed Hoops manager in June, after he enjoyed a successful spell as interim boss at Wealdstone last season, when he guided the Stones to safety in the Vanarama National League.

The Hoops though sit second from bottom in National League North, and have won just one of their opening nine league games. Their concession of 21 goals is the most in the division, with both Cox and his assistant Liam Badcock leaving the club.

Cox replaced Jenkins at City, after he had left the Hoops for the head coach role at Boreham Wood a month earlier.

Like City, the Wood were relegated from the National League last season, but Jenkins was arguably unfairly dismissed earlier this month with the club sitting 10th in National League South.

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Ross Jenkins has returned to Oxford CityRoss Jenkins has returned to Oxford City (Image: Mike Allen) Jenkins will now look to replicate history with the Hoops, following unrivalled success during his first stint.

The 33-year-old was appointed head coach in March 2022, after a spell as caretaker boss, and helped the club to finish fifth in National League South, before being beaten at Dorking Wanderers in a play-off semi-final.

The following campaign was a historic one for the Hoops, who put the previous season’s pain behind them, to earn promotion via the play-offs after finishing third in the table.

That meant City played last season at the highest level in the club’s history, however a seemingly never-ending injury list to key players was a huge factor in the side finishing bottom of the National League.

Jenkins told the Hoops website: “It’s a club that I know inside out with a hugely talented group of players.

“Results haven’t gone their way so far but we will work hard and that will turn, there is still a long way to go this season.

“I can’t wait to get started. We have a massive game in the FA Cup on Saturday so I’ll take training today, talk to the players, and then all of our energy will go into getting this club back to where it belongs.”

Hoops owner Justin Merritt added: “It’s never easy to part company with a manager. Sam is a very talented coach who was the outstanding candidate in the summer.

“His philosophy aligned perfectly to Oxford City, matched with an inspiring personality. I’d like to thank Sam and Liam for their work and wish them well for the future.

“Ross is an outstanding manager who knows the club, the players and will come in and hit the ground running from day one.

“His knowledge, professionalism and desire to achieve are exactly what we need, coupled with an extensive network within the game. I am excited about the opportunity to work with Ross again.”

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