OXFORD United will next week face two relegation rivals who have made managerial changes.

Rochdale have this morning sacked Keith Hill after six years in charge with the side 22nd in the Sky Bet League One table.

The U's visit Spotland next Tuesday, five days before they host 23rd-placed Bradford City, who have appointed Gary Bowyer following David Hopkin's resignation last week.

Herald Series:

  • Gary Bowyer

A club statement from Rochdale read: "It has been the most difficult decision that the board has had to make but it is felt that due to results on the pitch, that a new direction is needed.

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"We believe the next five games against opposition in and around us represents a great opportunity to try and retain our League One status, which is why this action has been taken now."

Bowyer, who was most recently in charge at Blackpool, takes over the Bantams initially for the rest of the season.

He said: "We are totally aware of the challenge that lies ahead but if I didn’t believe we couldn’t get out of this, I wouldn’t be here."

United, who beat Scunthorpe United 2-1 on Saturday to stay clear of the bottom four, visit Gillingham this weekend.