Oxford United have suffered stagnant seasons in the last few seasons.
Since promotion to League One in 2016, Oxford United have finished 8th, 16th, 12th, 4th, 6th, 8th and 19th in a period where the club have often fell at the final hurdles.
A period of expectancy with Karl Robinson at the helm ended last season with the club eight games without a win and flirting with relegation.
The experienced coach was replaced by the inexperienced Liam Manning.
The former MK Dons coach initially impressed on Milton Keynes as he developed the likes of Scott Twine and David Kasumu and attracted interest from Championship clubs.
However, after losing key players Manning team dropped off and he was sacked with the club sat 23rd in League One.
With the announcement of Manning as the new Oxford coach in March, came a mixed reaction of worry and optimism with Manning's contrasting fortunes.
After keeping the club in League One and with the signings of six new players the O's are my dark horses to make an impression on the league and at least finish top six where they belong.
The signings of McEachran and Rodrigues provide depth in the midfield for the O's.
Rodrigues has earnt many plaudits during his time at Notts County having scored 18 and provided 15 more in a record breaking County side.
His confidence on the ball may help provide a link up with Marcus Browne reminiscent to his link up with Aaron Nemane at County.
The arrival of Mark Harris from Cardiff provides the O's with a hard working striker who after a drop down the leagues is expected to be a valuable asset for the yellows.
An injury free season for Marcus Browne is crucial for any success the club may have this season.
The nimble winger returned to the club from Middlesbrough last season and provided a bright spark in a team devoid of excitement.
At MK Dons Manning developed a side that seemed to lack any weakness in his initial season.
His side were tricky and effective on both wings, his defence were physically imposing yet capable ball players and the teams energy and pressing would often catch opposition out.
With their strong signings and a coach who is capable of developing young players, I expect Oxford to be challenging at the right end of the table next season.
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