The only way Oxfordshire will see top-flight rugby is by a club ground-sharing with Oxford United.

That is the view of Lynn Evans, who believes such a move could work.

“There is always a chance when you have a football club like Oxford United,” said Evans.

“I’m the chairman of Wasps Academy, and I think if one of the top London clubs wanted to move, this area of the Thames Valley has got a lot of potential support.”

Evans added: “I can’t see a club in Oxfordshire making the jump through the ranks.”

“It is just really difficult for rugby and financial reasons.

“There could be a side doing what Henley did and reaching the second division, but I can’t see anyone going higher.”