As Matt Bloomfield prepares to take charge of his first match as Oxford United Head Coach, the Club can confirm the backroom staff who will support him

As Matt Bloomfield prepares to take charge of his first match as Oxford United Head Coach, the Club can confirm the backroom staff who will support him. 

As Matt Bloomfield prepares to take charge of his first match as Oxford United Head Coach, the Club can now confirm the full backroom team that will support him as he begins a new chapter at the Kassam Stadium.

The 41-year-old officially joined Oxford United on Friday and wasted no time in immersing himself in his new surroundings. Bloomfield was present in the stands over the weekend as Craig Short, Lewis Price and Chris Hackett led the team to an impressive FA Cup Third Round victory over MK Dons, a result that ensured momentum remains firmly with the U’s heading into the next phase of the season.

Oxford United can confirm that all existing members of the backroom staff will remain in place under Bloomfield, ensuring continuity and stability during the transition. Bloomfield has been clear in his desire to build upon the strong foundations already established at the Club, while gradually implementing his own ideas, philosophy and working practices.

To further strengthen the coaching and support structure, Bloomfield has been joined at Oxford United by Mike Dodds and Ben Cirne, two individuals he knows well and trusts implicitly.

Mike Dodds has been appointed Assistant Head Coach and arrives with a wealth of experience across both senior and developmental football. Dodds has previously held coaching roles at Birmingham City and Sunderland, where he was widely regarded for his work in player development and tactical preparation.

Most recently, he served as Head Coach of Wycombe Wanderers, gaining valuable first-team management experience that will add depth and balance to the Club’s coaching setup. Dodds joins Oxford United with immediate effect and will be on the training ground from day one, working closely with Bloomfield and the existing staff.

Ben Cirne joins the Club as Coach Analyst, reinforcing Oxford United’s commitment to data-driven performance analysis and modern coaching methods. Cirne has an established working relationship with Bloomfield, having previously collaborated with him at Colchester United, Wycombe Wanderers and Luton Town.

His role will focus on opposition analysis, performance review and supporting the coaching staff with detailed insights to enhance match preparation and player development. Cirne will officially join the Club next week.

Speaking internally, Bloomfield has emphasised the importance of unity, clear communication and shared ambition as the Club looks to progress both in the short and long term. With a blend of continuity and carefully selected new additions, Oxford United believe the structure is in place to support the Head Coach and players as they strive to achieve their objectives for the remainder of the season and beyond.

Further updates will be provided in due course as Bloomfield prepares the squad for his first match in charge.