PEP Clotet will today meet the players and staff for the first time as a new dawn breaks at Oxford United.

The Spaniard was on Saturday named the new U’s boss, replacing Michael Appleton who left to become Leicester City’s No 2 almost a fortnight earlier.

The appointement of Clotet, whose last job was assistant manager to Garry Monk at Leeds United, has caught the imagination of Oxford supporters.

But it will be a case of moving quickly for the 40-year-old, with the timing of Appleton’s departure hindering United’s summer recruitment.

The U’s face Oxford City in their first pre-season match on Saturday, before then embarking on a week-long tour of Portugal.

Although the size of their squad is nowhere near crisis point, there are a couple of clear areas that need attention, most notably in forward positions and at left back.

And Clotet will, no doubt, be keen to make his mark as soon as possible – both on the training ground and in the transfer market.

After the announcement was made on Saturday, Clotet tweeted that he was ‘honoured to be named manager of @OUFC Official. Can’t wait to start working on this exciting challenge alongside all of the U’s family’.

And his appointment was given ringing endorsements by some well-respected people in football.

Former boss Monk said: “Congratulations & good luck mate. I’m sure you’ll do a fantastic job.”

Spanish football expert Guillem Balague commented: “Intelligent signing. Pep was behind key work at @swansw and @LUFC under Monk. It was time to see him as number one. Good luck, Pep!”

Chief football writer at The Times, Henry Winter, added: “Highly regarded by players at Leeds. Contacts/reputation could bring in useful buys/loans.”

United’s new manager is to be introduced to the media on Wednesday.