DARRYL Eales insists it is “business as usual” at Oxford United after weeks of speculation about the club’s ownership.

The presence of Thai businessman Sumrith Thanakarnjanasuth, who had sold his stake at Reading in May, at several games sparked rumours about an imminent takeover.

While it is understood there has been interest, Eales has stayed tight-lipped despite several requests from the Oxford Mail to comment on the situation.

Oxford Mail:

  • Sumrith Thanakarnjanasuth watches Oxford United last month

But United’s chairman, who was frustrated by the way details of discussions with Juan Sartori got into the public domain earlier this year, responded yesterday to explain his approach and make it clear his focus had not changed.

He said: “I have done deals all my life.

“Commenting on whether there is a deal or not isn’t sensible or appropriate until it either happens or it does not.

“In the meantime, it’s a case of business as usual and we are focused on our board meeting next week where top of the agenda will be our plans for the January transfer window.”