NEW Oxford United owner Sumrith Thanakarnjanasuth met the players for the first time before Saturday’s draw at Northampton Town.

Having confirmed the long-awaited takeover on Thursday, he flew in from Thailand – via America – to watch the 0-0 draw at Sixfields.

And the man known as ‘Tiger’, who will meet the media this morning to reveal more about his plans for the club, paid a brief visit to see the squad ahead of the game.

Captain John Mousinho said: “He was in the changing room and just shook everyone’s hand to say hello.

“I think if it was a case of not wanting to distract the players before the game, but I’m sure we’ll all meet him.

“He has been around for a few weeks, so I think everyone knows who he is.”

Thanakarnjansuth arrived at the ground with outgoing chairman Darryl Eales.

He was met by not only media, but several United supporters, who he happily greeted and posed for pictures with.

Eales also addressed the squad, and news that he will remain at the club, was welcomed by Mousinho.

He said: “A few things have changed at the top, but Darryl came in and reassured us that he’s going to be around.

“He’s still got a stake in the club and a massive non-financial interest in the club.

“He’s got a great relationship with Tiger and they’re going to work towards building the club.

“That’s a real positive thing – that we’ve got the good people at the club who have built it over the last few years.”