Oxford United can announce that after 12 years of service, Derek Fazackerley has departed the Football Club.
Commonly known as 'Faz', the former England, Newcastle United and Manchester City coach has been an integral part of the Club since he joined in 2014.
Initially working as Assistant Manager to Michael Appleton, he also took up the role of First Team Coach and helped steer the Club as interim manager for two months in 2018.
In 2020, Faz took on an advisory position, which he has held for the last six years, using his experience to aid the football department and recruitment team during a successful period that included promotion to the Championship in 2024.
Speaking to the Club, Faz said: “Oxford United has been a massive part of my life, and I’m so thankful to everyone who has played a part in my 12 years here. This was a very difficult decision to take, and I will miss being part of the Club.
“When I first joined in 2014, I didn’t expect to be here for this long. I feel very proud to have played a small part in the success over those 12 years, particularly the two promotions the Club achieved in 2016 and 2024.
“Oxford United has come on immensely in those 12 years. When I joined, we were training on a little patch of land, and all of the coaching staff shared one small room for an office. Now, when you see the facilities the players have, the ambition to improve further and the incredible people who work here every day, everything is in place to bring success both now and in the future.
“There are far too many highlights and too many people to thank. I would just like to take this moment to wish Aaron, Ed and everyone at the Club every bit of success in the future.
“Finally, I would like to thank the fans for the support you have given me and the team over the past 12 years. We have had good times, and we have had difficult times, but you have always been there for the team. I wish you and the Club every success going forward.”
Head of Football Operations, Ed Waldron, said: "This Club owes Faz so much for the dedication he's given over more than a decade.
"He has been a friend, a mentor, a leader and an all-round good person, and someone who will be missed.
"We cannot thank Faz enough for what he has given Oxford United Football Club, and he will always be welcomed back."
As a player, Faz spent the majority of his career at Blackburn Rovers, making 671 appearances and remaining, to this day, the club's record appearance holder.
Moving into coaching, he joined Kevin Keegan's staff at Newcastle United in the early 90s and was later involved with the England national team alongside Keegan.
He also coached at Blackburn, Bolton Wanderers and Barnsley, before moving to Manchester City with Sven-Göran Eriksson in 2008, and later joining the former England manager again at Leicester City.
Everyone at Oxford United would like to thank Faz for his incredible dedication and service across these 12 years. He departs with our sincerest gratitude, and he will always be welcomed back at the Club.
