Oxford United: Michael Appleton will stay despite success - Darryl Eales

Michael Appleton has led Oxford United to a promotion and a Wembley final in his two seasons in charge

Oxford United owner Darryl Eales is confident they can keep head coach Michael Appleton at the club despite their recent success.

Promotion to League One has not prevented the U's losing influential players Kemar Roofe and Callum O'Dowda.

Eales believes a very special offer would be the only thing to tempt Appleton away from the Kassam Stadium.

"These are problems of success," he told BBC Radio Oxford. "These are the problems you want to have."

Eales continued: "We are very, very fortunate to have one of the best coaches in English football.

"I think Michael loves the club, the environment. It's his team and I think he's really looking forward to this season."

Oxford are set to receive a combined £4.6m for the sales of midfielders Roofe and O'Dowda to Leeds United and Bristol City respectively.

Despite those recent departures, Eales believes the feeling around them speaks volumes for the environment at the club.

He said: "One of the sayings I learned very early on in business was, 'train them so well they can leave, treat them so well they don't want to'.

"I think that's all we can ask for of anyone, be it players or coaching staff."