THE backing of those within Oxford United during testing times has meant the world to Karl Robinson.

The U’s slipped to the foot of the Sky Bet League One table last weekend despite earning a creditable point with a goalless draw at Southend United.

They were leapfrogged by Plymouth Argyle, who visit the Kassam Stadium tomorrow for a crunch clash.

United’s only league win this season came against Burton Albion in August and there has been growing discontent on the terraces during an eight-game winless run.

Robinson has been the target for much of the criticism, but the head coach has taken comfort from the support he has received from inside the club.

“If you ask any of my players here, every player wants Karl Robinson and this staff at the club,” he said.

“If you asked every member of staff, they would say that.

“The professionals in this club know what’s right and what’s wrong, but results will determine what people think of you as a manager. Results are determined by human error.

“I think there’s only been one game this year where tactically we could have been better.

“I think some of my players are playing with a slight cloud, but that’s only human nature.

“The cloud is only because they care. That’s the only reason.

“Don’t forget, these players have a lot to lose – their livelihoods – as well as the emotional aspect.

“They really do care for Oxford United and that for me is important.”

The other group Robinson highlighted was the U’s board, specifically owner Sumrith ‘Tiger’ Thanakarnjanasuth.

He said: “The support that Tiger has shown me over the last month has been incredible.

“It’s easy supporting a manager when you’re winning.

“It’s not sugar-coating anything, it’s not just saying it for the sake of it.

“It’s the truth and it’s important people understand that even though where he lives (Thailand) he gets over here once a month.

“He’s on the phone three times a day and everything is about the passion of making this club good.

“That’s something that should be commended.”

Robinson arrived at United in March with more than 400 games under his belt as manager at Milton Keynes Dons and Charlton Athletic.

But it is the last few weeks which have proved the most demanding.

“Oh, 100 per cent,” he said.

“It’s been the biggest learning curve in my whole ten-year career.

“I’ve never been out of the top half of this league, or I’ve been in the Championship, or coaching in the Premier League.

“I don’t know if people will see this as good or bad, but it’s been the biggest thing that will affect my career.

“Whatever happens I will be a lot better than I’ve ever been before.

“I’ve hated the results, but I’ll probably look back on it in a few weeks, months, years, decades and I’ll never forget this moment.”

He added: “There have been much better managers than me who have been through more difficult times than this.

“You’re in a moment you don’t want to be in, but they don’t last.”