OXFORD United chairman Darryl Eales believes the club will benefit on all fronts after appointing David Jones as a non-executive director.

The Sky Sports presenter, best known for fronting the satellite network’s Saturday Night Football, is a friend of the U’s chief and has built an extensive list of contacts after 20 years working in the sport.

Eales said: “David and I have chatted over the past 18 months and we have shared views on how football clubs should operate and, in particular, how to build real fan engagement.

“He has a wealth of knowledge as well as an incisive intellect and I am delighted that he has agreed to join the board as we seek to move the club forward.

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“I think we will all benefit from his insight and enthusiasm.”

Jones said: “I’ve been very impressed with the plans Darryl and Mark (Ashton, chief executive) have for Oxford United.

“Clearly it is a club with vast potential, and I’m delighted to be part of the team.”

“While this role will no doubt give me a greater insight into the inner workings of football I will also be bringing with me a unique perspective.”

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