We are delighted to say that a true Manor Legend will be Guest of Honour this week when John Byrne returns to the U’s.
John joined United from Millwall for £50,000 in November 1993 and went on to score 19 goals in 66 appearances, forging a fearsome partnership with Paul Moody before he left for Brighton & Hove Albion in February 1995. His goal ratio doesn’t tell the full story though- he was one of the most creative forwards United have ever had and he became a true favourite with the United fans.
“It was a great time to play for Oxford and there were some good players at the club then” he told us this week. “Denis Smith made some astute signings and there were some good players already there: the likes of Jim Magilton, Micky Lewis, Chrissy and Joey, Les Robinson, Paul Moody up front and then he brought in Matty Elliott.
"It was a really good side and a really good set of lads and a good dressing room. That was one of the main things I can remember. It was such a good club to be around; Denis was very personable, as was Malcolm Crosby and of course Steve McLaren, who went on to greater things, was the youth team coach. I really enjoyed my time at the Manor. I used to love playing at the Manor, when we were kicking down the hill towards the London Road, it was brilliant. Teams couldn’t cope with us.”
You can read a full double page interview with ‘Budgie’ in the matchday programme this Saturday when United take on Peterborough United in a huge game for the U’s and iFollow subscribers can view an interview with John above.
Tickets are available right now from oufctickets.co.uk and by calling 01865 337533
It’s new Chairman Tiger’s first home game- join the roar and get behind the U’s.