'We're coming back' insist fans after relegation

Saturday was the first time Oxford United experienced relegation since dropping out of the Football League in 2006.

Will Lankshear, Oxford's top goal scorer this season, said the result had been "bittersweet".

"It's extremely disappointing but we have to move on, and the crowd are here supporting us to the very end - I think they've been outstanding all season," the 21-year-old striker, on loan from Tottenham, said.

He added: "It's such a beautiful club."

Also speaking on BBC Radio Oxford, U's fan Matt said: "We're coming straight back up."

"We've got to be positive - I've learnt from following Oxford that there's no point being negative," he said.

"I beg everyone that's had a season ticket to renew that season ticket - show the players how much the club means to us."

On loan striker Will Lankshear said Oxford was a "beautiful club" [Getty Images]

Manager Matt Bloomfield, who joined the U's in January to replace the sacked head coach Gary Rowett, said he was feeling a "complete mix" of emotions.

"Obviously, extreme disappointment at what's happened today in terms of the position of the football club," he said.

"But that's certainly mixed in with pride at our supporters, the way that they've supported the boys over the season and today - I think it's there's also a lot of hope for the future."

He added: "I'm really excited about the future, but I have to admit obviously that my overriding feeling today is one of extreme disappointment."

More on this story

• Oxford relegated after two years in Championship
• Oxford chairman says club will 'regroup quickly'

Related internet links

• Oxford United