ANDREW Proctor has left Oxford United to take up a role with Sky Bet Championship side Bristol City.

He joined the U's from Exeter City as head physio in 2014, going on to become the club's head of sports science and medicine as the department grew.

A popular member of the backroom staff, a host of players have paid tribute to Proctor's work in aiding their recovery from injury.

But he is now becoming the head of physiotherapy at Ashton Gate, which is close to his home.

Proctor told the club's website: "I have lived in Bristol throughout my time at Oxford so in many ways it is my home town club, and I have seen the transformation at Ashton Gate.

"Bristol City are a Championship side who have genuine ambitions to reach the Premier League and the facilities and the way the club is growing make this a really exciting move for me.

“I am looking forward to an new challenge but I want to thank everyone at Oxford and I leave knowing that they are heading in the right direction.”

Niall McWilliams, United's managing director, said: “Procs will always be part of the Oxford United family and has done an unbelievable job for us.

"But Bristol City are a great club, in a higher division and right on his doorstep so we fully understand why he is moving on.

"He does so with our very best wishes and he knows he is always welcome to come back and see us anytime.”