Oxford United are mourning the sad news that the clubs first ever professional footballer, Jack Casley, has died aged 88.

Casley joined the Yellows, formerly known as Headington United, back in 1949 after previously playing for his home town club Torquay United.

Renowned as one of the greatest servants of football in Oxford, Casley went onto represent United and Oxford City during his footballing career spanned to almost an incredible sixty years in the game.

After hanging up his boots; Casley became Oxford’s chief scout back at the old Manor Ground, nurturing the likes of Kevin Brock, Andy Thomas and driving Us legend John Aldridge into the limelight.

Casley, who stepped down as the clubs chief scout in 2002 after 53-years with the Yellows, was graciously commended by former United winger Peter Rhoades-Brown for all his hard work over the clubs history.

He said: “Jack was a big part of the club for over 50 years. He had such a knowledge of the game and liked nothing better than to sit and talk football with us.

“Most weekends he was out there watching junior games in the morning and then off to another game in the afternoon. He never tired of it or lost his enthusiasm.

“He has fought bravely against illness in the last couple of years and will be missed by us all.”

From everyone at Rage Online, our thoughts are with Jack Casley’s family.