ANDY Whing's six-year association with Oxford United has ended after he took on a role at Kidderminster Harriers.

The former midfielder, who turns 33 this week, has become head coach of the Vanarama National League North side's under 23s.

It ends a two-year stint where Whing cut his teeth in coaching as joint manager of United's youth team.

The job came up when injuries forced the popular ex-Coventry City trainee into retirement in 2015, after four seasons as a player with United.

Whing, who lives in the West Midlands and knows boss John Eustace from their time with the Sky Blues, said: "I have had a fantastic six and a half years at Oxford United and want to thank the players, management and staff for the way they made me feel part of the club from the very first day.

"I have loved every minute and am sad to be leaving such a fantastic club, but I feel it is the right thing to do for my career right now."

Leon Blackmore-Such will now take over the youth team reins in full, having shared the duties with Whing.

He said: "Fans maybe only saw the fierce Whingy on the pitch - I know they loved that side of him.

"But off the field he is very different; very approachable, very focussed and someone I have learned so much from over the last two years or so."

Darryl Eales, United's chairman, said: “It is sad to see him go but he feels it is the right move for him and we wish him the best of luck in his new role.

"He leaves the youth team in great shape and with a number of promising youngsters continuing the club’s proud tradition of developing local young players and giving them the best opportunity of becoming professional footballers.”