Oxford United have been handed a major pre-season blow, with the news that physio Neil Sullivan is to leave the club and join former U's boss Mark Wright at Peterborough.

Sullivan was a hugely popular character at the Kassam Stadium, and formed an integral part of the backroom team.

His departure on the day that the players return to training is being seen as a massive loss for the U's.

"It's been a very hard decision to make, but there are things going on in my personal life - which I don't really want to talk about too much - which mean that I just feel it's the right time to make a clean break and take up a new challenge," he said.

"I've loved every minute of my time at Oxford, and I'm sure they will have a very successful season.

"The chairman has been great with me, and understands my reasons for leaving, and Brian Talbot has impressed me in everything he's done.

"I will certainly be looking out for Oxford's results first on a Saturday afternoon.

"I've met a lot of great people during my time at Oxford and am kind of sad to be leaving, but at the same time this is a fresh start and I'm excited to have the opportunity to work at Peterborough and try and be part of a winning team there."

Wright brought Sullivan to United during his time as manager.

He arrived in the final days at the Manor Ground following the departure of Neal Reynolds, and proved a crucial figure at the Kassam Stadium.

Sullivan turned down a job at Leyton Orient earlier this summer, but has decided to rejoin Wright at London Road.

"I took Neil to Oxford and wanted to bring him here as well - and he wanted to come," Wright said.

"He's a great physiotherapist and I have a great deal of trust in him.

"He will be a good addition here."

Many United players were unhappy when Sullivan was pushed into the background with the arrival of Ramon Diaz's Argentine party - which included a doctor and physical trainer.

But their departure meant that he was able to assume his role as the No 1.

Sullivan was crucial in getting Jamie Brooks and Lee Steele, among others, back to full fitness.