Smithson was taken on as an apprentice by Arsenal, having initially joined the Gunners as a groundsman in 1959, but was recruited to the playing staff and turned professional in October 1960.

In 1964, he joined the U’s having made just two appearances for the Gunners.

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The right-half found a home at United though, playing 180 times, and scoring six goals.

Smithson played a key role in promotion to the second tier in 1968, and when his U’s career finished, he was granted a testimonial against Swindon Town in 1975.

After leaving United, Smithson went on be player-manager of Witney Town.

The U’s posted on social media: “All of us at Oxford United are saddened to learn of the passing of former United player Rodney Smithson at the age of 80 years old.

“Rodney was instrumental in Oxford’s promotion to the second tier in 1968. We keep his friends and family in our thoughts.”