February 19 – Birmingham City’s newly installed boss Tony Mowbray has temporarily stepped down from his managerial role as he undergoes medical treatment for an unnamed illness.
The 60-year-old requires immediate treatment for the undisclosed issue, which means he will not be overseeing games or training for up to eight weeks.
He replaced Wayne Rooney on January 8 after the former Manchester United striker managed the team from a playoff spot to the brink of the relegation zone in record time.
Since Mowbray’s appointment, the club have taken 10 points from a possible 18 and have climbed up to 15th in the Championship table.
Having assumed the role with the Blues after leaving Sunderland in December, Mowbray was present in the dugout for Saturday’s home victory against his former team. Somewhat ironically his replacement at Sunderland, Michael Beale, was sacked following the loss.
While Mowbray is stepping away from “on-site management” of Birmingham, Mowbray will continue to work with his assistant manager Mark Venus, who will be filling in for Mowbray.
“Undergoing treatment will necessitate that I temporarily step away from the technical area,” he said.
“I will continue to provide advice and counsel while undergoing treatment.
“The club has been incredibly supportive of me and my family and we are very grateful. I know that everyone will be respectful of our privacy at this time.”
Birmingham’s Chief Executive, Garry Cook, assured that the interim successors to Mowbray would receive comprehensive support to carry forward the initiatives initiated by the former manager of Blackburn, Middlesbrough, Coventry City, West Bromwich Albion, and Celtic.
Venus will be in charge of the team for the next match against Ipswich away from home.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1732793611labto1732793611ofdlr1732793611owedi1732793611sni@g1732793611niwe.1732793611yrrah1732793611