Liam Manning says Bristol City’s “vision” played a key role in his decision to leave Oxford and join the Robins.

The 38-year-old succeeds Nigel Pearson, who was sacked last month after a poor run of results, in the hot seat at Ashton Gate.

Manning gained the Robins’ interest after a strong start to the campaign, with Oxford sitting second in the League One table, only above Wanderers on goal difference.

“This is a terrific opportunity and one that I’m really looking forward to,” he told the club’s official website.

“If you look at the vision of the club and where they want to get to and how they want to get there, I think there is really good fit and alignment with my journey and where I want to get to.

“You want players that you can coach and are mouldable and on an upward trajectory in their career.

“I think that brings certain behaviours in terms of drive, intensity and ambition which align with how we want to work.”

Manning took charge at Oxford in March and helped the club avoid relegation to League Two last term.

He oversaw major changes to the squad in the summer, with the likes of Ruben Rodrigues and James Beadle arriving at the Kassam Stadium.

Robins chairman Jon Lansdown added: “Liam is a great fit for the club and the style of play we want.

“He has a very detailed approach to coaching, improving players and getting the best out of them, as his record at MK Dons and Oxford United shows, while he has valuable experience within the City Group and in Belgium.

“As soon as we made the change, Liam was our first choice and we are grateful to Oxford United for the extremely professional way they have approached the departure of someone who was doing a fantastic job for them.

“We are excited about the arrival of Liam and Chris (Hogg) and fulfilling the ambition we all have for the club with this talented and committed group of players.”

Craig Short will take charge of Oxford on an interim basis with support from Academy coach Chris Hackett. The U’s return to League One action this weekend with a trip to Leyton Orient.