MARK Ashton has called on Oxford United fans to come forward at tonight’s forum with their ideas on how to improve the club.

The chief executive will be at the Kassam Stadium with chairman Darryl Eales and head coach Michael Appleton to talk with supporters.

It is the first meeting of its kind since widespread changes at the club during the summer.

None of tonight’s top table had any prior connection to the club, so since arriving in July they have been busy learning about every aspect of United.

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Ashton sees the forum as an important step in the process.

He said: “It’s an opportunity for people to see us and communicate with us.

“The more we do that the more information we gather and we have found the stakeholders have varied opinions.

“That’s invaluable to us because we don’t have all the answers, fans do.

“Our message hasn’t changed since we arrived – talk to us.

“What I say to people is if you’ve got a problem, tell us.

“But don’t be afraid to give us a solution, because the fans are in the middle of it and they know what works and what doesn’t, because they’ve been here far longer than us.

“The ability to communicate with the fans, listen to what they think will work and take it on board is vital.”

Improving the experience of supporters on a matchday at the Kassam Stadium is a priority and Ashton is undertaking a review on the areas which can be improved.

While still early in the season, attendances so far will be a concern to the new set-up.

The average of 5,076 is down from last season’s 5,923, even with the significant boost from last month's fixture against Portsmouth, who brought more than 2,100 supporters.

It is more than a blip for United, who were averaging 7,451 for home games three seasons ago.

Ashton is well aware ultimately the key factor lies in results on the pitch, which have been patchy so far despite an improved style, but thinks other improvements can make a difference.

“No matter what we do off the pitch, you can’t replace that feeling of elation and leaving here knowing we’ve won and played well,” he said.

“But there are 100 other things physically within our control that may give us an edge, so we have to do everything.”

Doors open at 6pm, with the forum due to begin at 7pm.

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