Oxford United have sacked boss Gary Waddock and appointed former Blackburn Rovers boss Michael Appleton in his place.

Waddock had only been appointed as head coach at the Kassam Stadium in March, but a change in the club's hierarchy has seen the former Wycombe Wanderers manager removed from his position.

Oxford have announced that investor and shareholder Darryl Eales has become chairman of the club, with Mark Ashton becoming the League Two side's new chief executive.

The appointment of Ashton has proven pivotal in the arrival of Appleton, with the pair having previously worked together at West Bromwich Albion.

Appleton has been out of work since leaving Ewood Park in March 2013 after just 15 matches in charge.