Kelvin Thomas replaced Nick Merry as Oxford United chairman

Oxford United chairman Kelvin Thomas has said he agonised over the decision to relieve Darren Patterson of his managerial duties.

Thomas has placed Jim Smith in temporary charge of team affairs but said the dismissal was more difficult because of his affection for Patterson.

"It was a very tough decision for me, I consider Darren a friend as well the manager," Thomas told BBC Oxford.

"It was an overall decision based on the needs and desires of the club."

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