"In April 1983, Oxford United and Reading were both in the third tier of English football. The U's were owned by millionaire publisher Robert Maxwell and about to embark on the most successful period in their history, winning the Third Division, Second Division and the League Cup in consecutive seasons."
"Maxwell announced he was close to taking a controlling interest in Reading, with a view to merging the two clubs into one team called the Thames Valley Royals which would play at a stadium to be built between Oxford and Reading."
"Maxwell had come up with the plan to 'secure league football in the area', with the two clubs struggling financially. There had already been detailed discussions with the Football League in the months leading up to the announcement."
"Proposals were in place for the team to alternate home games between Reading's Elm Park and Oxford's Manor Ground until the new ground was built."
In April 1983, Oxford United and Reading were both in the third tier of English football. Robert Maxwell, the owner of Oxford United, announced plans to merge the two clubs into a single entity called the Thames Valley Royals. This merger aimed to address financial struggles faced by both clubs. Detailed discussions with the Football League had already taken place, proposing that the new team would alternate home games between the existing stadiums until a new ground was constructed between Oxford and Reading.
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