SUMRITH Thanakarnjanasuth has wasted little time in prioritising his first job at Oxford United.

The Thai businessman, who last night took control of the U’s from Darryl Eales, says finishing off the process of finding the club’s next manager is top of his list.

And he expects a swift appointment.

Craig Bellamy is the red-hot favourite to become the next boss, with Cardiff City on Wednesday giving United permission to hold further talks with the former Wales international.

All eyes will be on the directors’ box at Northampton Town tomorrow when the Thai businessman, known as Tiger, will watch a match as owner for the first time.

And he says if any United supporters have doubts over his desire and willingness to bring success to the club, they are wrong.

“I am only sorry that I am unavoidably out of the country for this announcement,” he said in a statement.

“But I am looking forward to coming to the Northampton game on Saturday and to saying hello to the fans properly at a later date.

“I would just like to say to the fans now that my ambitions match, and may even exceed, theirs.”

A poor run has seen the U’s slip to five points off the Sky Bet League One relegation zone, and the club’s majority shareholder knows providing a solid platform is crucial to avoid an unwanted battle against the drop.

Derek Fazackerley has been in caretaker charge, but after a stunning injury-time win at Charlton Athletic on February 3, three successive defeats have left the club looking down rather than up.

Thanakarnjanasuth is aware many supporters are anxious about the club’s next step.

But he is hopeful a swift appointment can provide the necessary boost to finish the season on a high.

“I know many fans are anxious to know our plans for the head coach position,” he said.

“In the past few weeks, a lot of progress has been made and I have been kept fully informed.

“Now that I have been formally appointed as chairman, I will be looking to complete this process quickly so that we can provide further stability for the rest of the season.”

READ: Darryl Eales back Tiger to take U's to next level