FORMER Inter Milan chairman Erick Thohir has joined Oxford United’s board.

The 48-year-old from Indonesia has a long track record in a variety of sports and aside from his role in the Serie A giants had also owned Major League Soccer club DC United in Washington and had a stake in the Philadelphia 76ers basketball team.

Companies House have this morning confirmed his appointment, and he joins owner Sumrith ‘Tiger’ Thanakarnjanasuth, Horst Geicke and Zaki Nuseibah on the board.

“I have known Tiger for a long time now and as soon as he said he was looking to get involved with Oxford United I was interested in helping him in some way,” Thohir, whose five years as chairman at Inter Milan ended last month, told the club’s website.

“ Most people know about the city but I was also interested in its football club. I have looked at their history – the 125th Anniversary has really shown how the club has been at the heart of Oxford and how the fans have been part of building the club.

“I think we need to acknowledge that history and keep the spirit of the club, but if I can add my experience in some way to help the club build for the future then that is great for all of us.”

Tiger said: “Erick is a very exciting addition to the board.

“He shares my passion for football and I think what appealed to him was the chance to help build the future for a club from a city as world famous as Oxford.

“He is a leading businessman and has worked at the highest global level with entertainment, news and sports television channels plus digital platforms.

“I have known him a long time, know he will be a major asset to this football club, and know that we now have a board who I believe can truly move this club forward.”