Smith departs upstairs

67 year old Jim Smith who came back from a short break this week in Spain has decided to call it a day on his second stint as the yellows gaffer.

Jim first game in charge was way back in 1982. A win 2-0 at Bristol City. The team that day was:-
Team Details

1 Roy Burton
2 John Doyle
3 David Fogg
4 Billy Jeffrey
5 Gary Briggs
6 Malcolm Shotton
7 Kevin Brock
8 Peter Foley
9 Keith Cassells
10 Andy Thomas
11 Jason Seacole
Sub Ollie Kearns who replaced Keith Cassells

Jim managed United 273 times which resulted in 134 wins, 75 draws and lost 64 times. This was arguably the best results record of any manager.

In 1984 Jim led the yellows to old third division title and the following year did the same in the second division. Robert Maxwell then refused to improve Jim's contract which resulted in him leaving for QPR. Ironically in 1986 Oxford United met Jim Smiths new team in the League Cup final which United won 3-0.

March 2006 saw Jim return with his friend Nick Merry to try as save United from falling out of the football league for the first time in 44 years, even though brining in 5 new players on the last transfer day he failed to prevent the drop.

His first season saw the U's just missing out on promotion. This season saw the U's drop to their lowest point by being 9 points off the playoffs after 18 league games.

Jim's last match was a 5-0 drubbing Rushden and Diamonds.

But let`s finish on a high. Jim bought us our happiest memories at the club so far. Brining in U's legends John Aldridge, Billy Hamilton and Peter Rhoades-Brown!:-)


Jim you are a legend and will be remembered very fondly as that. May we experience more success with you in your role as director.

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