Sunderland are set to host Oxford United at the Stadium of Light this weekend, with the U’s making their visit fresh off a successful promotion campaign under Des Buckingham last season. Oxford have been this season’s surprise package, and they’ll be looking to continue their impressive form against Sunderland.
Oxford United currently sit 11th in the Championship table but have been held to five consecutive draws. Their most recent result was a 1-1 draw at home against Derby County in midweek. Notably, U’s manager Des Buckingham was unable to attend the post-match press conference after experiencing dizziness during the game, raising concerns about his health ahead of their upcoming clash with Sunderland.
Oxford United Boss Des Buckingham Suffers Health Scare vs Derby County
Following the match against Derby County, Oxford assistant coach Craig Short stepped in for post-match duties, revealing that Des Buckingham experienced dizziness during the game. Short explained, “He stayed till the end of the game but two or three times felt dizzy and had to hold on to the side.” While they initially suspected something in his pre-match meal, Buckingham dismissed that possibility. His condition has raised concerns as Oxford prepare for their next fixture against Sunderland.
Short continued, “He’s been seen by the club doctor and is still not right, so we felt it was best if he gets himself away from the stadium and off home.” This decision underscores the seriousness of Buckingham’s health scare, as the club prioritizes his well-being ahead of their upcoming match against Sunderland. Fans and players alike will be hoping for a swift recovery for their manager.
The Latest on Des Buckingham Ahead of Sunderland vs. Oxford United
After the Derby County match on Tuesday night, reports from Oxford Mail indicated that Des Buckingham was scheduled to lead first-team training on Wednesday. Since then, there have been no further reports indicating any issues, suggesting that Buckingham is in the clear to take charge of his side for the crucial game against Sunderland this weekend. Fans will be relieved to see their manager back in action as Oxford looks to end their drawing streak.
Des Buckingham’s Management Record and Career So Far
Des Buckingham may still be relatively unknown in English management, but he’s making significant strides with his hometown club, Oxford United. At 39, Buckingham’s playing career was brief; he spent time in the youth academies at Reading and Oxford before pivoting to coaching.
He got his start at Oxford United, initially working with the youth teams before stepping up as a first-team coach under Chris Wilder. His experience in developing young talent and understanding the club’s culture has laid a strong foundation for his managerial career, which he is now building upon with impressive results at Oxford.
However, it’s abroad where Des Buckingham truly made his mark. He managed Wellington Phoenix and the New Zealand U20 and U23 teams, even stepping in as caretaker for the senior national team during his tenure. Buckingham then spent two years at the helm of Mumbai City in the Indian Super League before returning to England in 2023 to lead Oxford United, guiding them to promotion from League One via the play-offs.
Throughout his managerial career, Buckingham boasts an impressive win record of 50.3%, achieving 84 victories from 167 matches. This strong performance reflects his potential as he continues to develop his career in English football.