In just 84 words, United announced that Buckingham had left the club, and it’s understood, and been widely reported, that he was sacked.

The U’s have one win in 15 Sky Bet Championship games, but are still exceeding expectations by finding themselves above the relegation zone following promotion under Buckingham in the League One play-offs last season.

United supporters have been quick to praise Buckingham online – and criticise the decision to sack him.

READ ALSO: Des Buckingham sacking has left a very sour taste in the mouth

Dean Vincent said: “Can’t believe the board have forgotten the Wembley high already. We can all still smile when we cast our minds back to that glorious early summer’s day.”

Nick Sanders added: “I am stunned. I am speechless. I am extremely disappointed. The board has shown absolutely no loyalty, yet they expect unconditional loyalty from the supporters.”

William Richardson commented online: “We’ve had one of the toughest set of fixtures in the league, so no surprise we’ve drifted down, but as fixtures ease up, we’d likely rise back up.”

Sacking Buckingham was described as an ‘absolutely disgraceful decision’ by John Barrett, while Ian Bishop said it was a ‘disgusting decision’.

Dan Parkin said: “Disgraceful decision. Never has a club owed so much to one man.”

Former Oxford Mail court reporter Thom Airs said: “I just cannot understand this. Genuinely shocked.”

Roy Bailey said ‘this is sad news and I wish him well for the future’, while Mark Wilkins added ‘thanks for all you did Des, always a legend’.