Oxford's Blue Square Premier rivals Luton Town yesterday parted company with manager Mick Harford.

And the guessing game begins as to who the Hatters will appoint.

The team’s 1-0 defeat at home to Stevenage appears to have been the final straw for the Luton board.

The position is bound to attract some big names, and the appointment will have a big bearing on whether the Hertfordshire club mount a strong challenge for the title.

They are now 13 points behind Oxford, but have a game in hand, and United still have to visit Kenilworth Road.

Harford took over in January 2008 and led Luton to Johnstone's Paint Trophy glory last season.

Luton's managing director Gary Sweet said: “Mick hasn't seen a single stroke of luck this campaign and perhaps if we had fewer injuries I am sure things would have been different.”

Wilder said: “It’s disappointing because I know Mick and he’s a proper football man.

Luton’s first-team coach Alan Neilson has been named caretaker boss for tomorrow’s home game against Tamworth.