HOURS after verbally accepting the job offer, Gary Waddock saw Oxford United beat Hartlepool United – but coincidentally he was already due to attend Friday night’s game.

The fixture had been earmarked to scout as part of his role as head of coaching at MK Dons.

He watched the U’s win 1-0 alongside manager Karl Robinson, who was taking a closer look at potential targets among the visitors’ line-up.

Waddock was not officially announced until the paperwork had been completed the following day, but it turned out to be a very worthwhile trip.

“It was funny,” he said.

“At MK Dons we were looking ahead to next season and there were a number of players on the radar that we wanted to have a look at.

“Hartlepool is a long way away and they have some good youngsters.

“At MK Dons they are encouraging young players to come through and we thought it was a good opportunity to come and have a look.

“It worked out well on both fronts, I was able to have a look at our team and I was delighted with the result.”