Supporters of Oxford United have won their bid to protect the club’s stadium after it was approved as a ‘community asset’ this morning at Oxford City Council. The application made by the fans/ trust, OxVox, was accepted at high court today meaning the group must be notified if the Kassam Stadium is to be sold.

If any bids for the stadium are received, it is understood that OxVox would then be given six months to respond with a competing counter offer. It is thought the initiative shown by OxVox will spur on the fans of Premier League sides Manchester United and Liverpool, who have interest in protecting their respective stadiums, Old Trafford and Anfield.

United have played at the Kassam since its opening in 2001 under former owner Firoz Kassam, who eventually sold the club in 2006. However, Kassam kept his rightful ownership of the stadium, and it has since been a target of the current club owner Ian Lenagan to purchase the stadia permanently.

Nevertheless, it was a fantastic achievement for OxVox Chairman Mark Sennett: “This is a significant moment for the supporters of Oxford United.

“We’re delighted with the council’s decision. This means United supporters will now never wake up one morning to read in the paper that the stadium has been sold, with no recourse.”

Sennett added; “The stadium is of huge importance to the people of Oxfordshire and the club’s role is a source of huge community benefit and pride.

“Because of this listing, supporters and the Oxfordshire community will be able to play more of a role in its destiny”.

Meanwhile in other news, former United striker Tom Craddock has penned a two-year deal at League Two bound Portsmouth. The 26 year-old arrives at Fratton Park on a free transfer after being released by Oxford last week, and will return to the Kassam Stadium next season under Guy Whittingham.

Finally, another ex-forward from Oxford United is on trial at Championship side Birmingham City. Matt Green, who will be remembered for his stunning opening goal at Wembley Stadium in the Us play-off final against York City over three years ago, has spent a week training with the Blues after netting 57 goals in two seasons at recently promoted Mansfield Town.