Les Robinson, who left the Manor Ground yesterday after ten years and 458 appearances - making him the fourth longest-serving player in Oxford United's history - says he will be "very disappointed" if he is not given a testimonial in the same way as Mike Ford, writes Jon Murray.

The 33-year-old right back yesterday joined third division Mansfield Town, his home club, on a two-year deal.

But the ex-U's skipper admitted he would have stayed at Oxford, had they also offered two years. He also turned down Lincoln City. "We were all only offered one-year contracts, until Mr Kassam gets the go-ahead for the new stadium, and that was disappointing," Robinson said.

"Had Oxford offered me two years, even at reduced terms, I would have stayed because it would have taken me to 35 and my Football League pension.

"I'm Oxford through and through and it's a massive wrench to leave because I feel Banbury's my home. I got on with most of the fans and loved the place.

"Obviously the gaffer's hands were tied but I've got to look after my family and my kids.

"But I've done my ten years so I think I deserve a testimonial. I'd be very disappointed if I didn't get one." Robinson played 120 matches more for the club than Ford - his 458 games puts him behind only John Shuker (534), Gary Briggs (508) and Colin Clarke (497) - but in the last two years his form has dipped.

Mansfield, though, believe his experience will be invaluable to them.

"I think I've found my team the leader we've been lacking," said Mansfield manager Billy Dearden.

United boss Denis Smith said: "It's disappointing that I've lost Les, who has been a good servant to us. But I'm not surprised because he bought a house up in Mansfield six months ago.

"It means I need a new right back and captain, but I think I've got a right back and a striker lined up, and it's possible that one of the ones I will bring in will do me a good job as skipper." Robinson, who denied an earlier report that he would be helping out as a coach at Field Mill, added: "It's a great move for me because it's my home-town club and I'm going to be captain.

"They're a club with ambition. They've just signed Wayne Corden, who was very impressive when we played Port Vale, and at the ground they've got two new stands going up.

"I just felt it was time for a change. Over the last couple of years, we have had troubles at Oxford and a lot of managers."