Birmingham City Football Club has confirmed that Manager Tony Mowbray would take a formal medical leave of absence until the start of pre-season 2024/25.
Gary Rowett has been appointed Interim Manager for the remaining eight games of the Sky Bet Championship season, effective immediately. Rowett has extensive management experience in the division, having previously managed Birmingham from October 2014 until December 2016.
The Board and Leadership squad decided to act at the start of the international break, in collaboration with Mowbray, who helped choose Rowett as the right manager to lead the squad until the end of the season.
The medical leave of absence will allow Mowbray to focus solely on his family and complete recovery from his recent health issues. Assistant Manager Mark Venus will also take a leave of absence with immediate effect and return to the Club at the same time as Mowbray. Ashley Cole and Peter Shuttleworth, first-team coaches, and Maik Taylor, goalkeeper coach, will stay with the club as members of Rowett’s coaching staff.
Birmingham City Co-Owner and Chairman of the Board, Tom Wagner, stated: “The Board and Club Leadership completely support Tony’s choice to prioritize his health and family. We continue to wish Tony and his family all the best. Given Tony’s choice to take some extra time off, we felt it is in the Club’s best interests to select Gary Rowett to lead the squad forward from the touchline for the final eight games of the season. Gary is an accomplished leader who has our whole backing.
Garry Cook, Chief Executive Officer, stated: “The team is in a difficult situation. A strong leader is required to guide the players till the end of the season. Tony wanted to be part of the solution, so we agreed to find an interim manager. Gary Rowett was the top choice. We’re delighted to welcome Gary back to Blues. He possesses the essential experience as well as a strong desire to serve the Club and its passionate fans. Gary will receive all of the assistance required to maintain the Club in the Sky Bet Championship.”
He went on to say: “We all look forward to welcoming Tony and Mark back to the Club before the start of next season and continue to wish Tony a speedy recovery.”
