THE uncertainty coronavirus is having over football has prompted one of Oxford United's Sky Bet League One rivals to announce a management change.

Nigel Clough is the sixth longest-serving boss in English football's top four divisions, but he is to step down at Burton Albion.

Assistant Gary Crosby and chief scout Simon Clough will also depart, with Jake Buxton becoming player/manager.

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In a statement, the Brewers - who were 12th in the table when the division was suspended - made it clear it had nothing to do with performances.

Chairman Ben Robinson said: “Unfortunately, the coronavirus pandemic is having a dramatic impact on all football clubs, meaning we have to make difficult financial decisions going forward in order to safeguard the club and ensure it still exists for the supporters and the benefit of the community for generations to come.

"At present we have no idea when football will be safe to re-start and whether we will be able to play in front of crowds or behind closed doors, which brings a high degree of financial uncertainty.

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“It’s therefore with a heavy heart that after talks with Nigel, Gary and Simon we have agreed that their departure will help us meet these challenges."

Clough added: "We hope that by stepping away it helps the club with the financial pressures in these unprecedented times, and that it will also help the club secure the jobs of as many of the staff as possible going forward."