Jim Smith's future must be made clear, writes sports editor Mark Edwards.

Whether the Bald Eagle stays on as manager or moves upstairs, we need a firm decision to clarify the situation for the remainder of the season at least.

Smith has said that he will do what he feels is right for Oxford United, but now is the time he must lay the 'will he, won't he' saga to rest.

Should he decide to ride out the storm, Smith has to commit to doing so until May.

Defeats at Histon, Droylsden and the humiliation at Rushden would have been too much for many managers to take, but the United boss has been in this position before and may feel he has the experience to turn things around.

If, however, he has decided enough is enough and he could do without the day-to-day hassle of being a manager, he must say so.

No true Oxford United fan will think anything less of Smith if he calls it a day - and does so with dignity. In fact, they will respect him even more.

We cannot though, have any more uncertainty.

If supporters know that Smith is here for the rest of the season, they will get right behind him and the team.

If he goes, he will still be assured of a rousing reception at Saturday's FA Cup match against Northwich.

But everyone must know where they stand - or Oxford United could suffer in a major way.