Good evening everyone and welcome back to our final home pre-season game of the summer.
I would like to welcome everyone associated with Leeds United, a fantastic club who I am sure will be hoping to regain their place where they belong, in the Premier League.
As we saw on Saturday, playing a team from a higher division is a massive challenge but I thought we played very well against Crystal Palace. The late goal that made it 3-1 made the scoreline a little harsh on us because I thought we looked very good. Half of the starting line-up were playing a home game for the first time so that was an important step, and I think those of you who were here could see that we are on the right lines this summer.
There is still work to be done and Karl, myself and the rest of the recruitment team will continue to work every day to try and strengthen and add to the existing squad. As you know, the rules have changed this year and so we now have around three weeks to put the finishing touches to the squad, at least until January. You have my guarantee that we will be working every hour of every day to add to an exciting set of players who we believe will be challenging at the top of the table this season.
May I also take a moment to say well done to young Fabio Lopes, the latest young man to make the step up from the youth team. Fabio is only 16 but has been handed an opportunity and has looked more than comfortable. What a great endorsement of the work that our Academy does and how exciting for all of us for the future.
Can I also say how great the new kit looks. The club shop had record sales on Saturday so pop along tonight, grab that new shirt and then we will do our very best to make sure that whoever is wearing it, players or fans, does so with pride throughout what I am sure will be a memorable season for everyone at Oxford United.
Enjoy the game
Sumrith Thanakarnjanasuth (Tiger)
Chairman, Oxford United