Tony Mowbray set to step away from Birmingham City job temporarily with unnamed illness

In a shocking revelation from the English Championship, Tony Mowbray is set to step away from the Birmingham City job with an unnamed illness after taking over the club just back in January. 

Following the sacking of ex Manchester United legend, Wayne Rooney, Tony Mowbray was appointed as Birmingham City boss in January. Just as the club was regaining form, winning 3 out of their last 5 matches, the news sent shockwaves. After initial medical assessments it has been confirmed by Mowbray that he will be stepping away from the job, temporarily. The gaffer refused to elaborate on his medical issues and has asked for utmost privacy regarding the issue.

The Wayne Rooney replacement had been a breath of fresh air for the club as the club returned to winning ways. Since his arrival, the club has risen out of 20th place to 15th. Under his purview, the club has accumulated 10 points out of a possible 18. Birmingham City also beat Hull 2-1 in the third round of the FA Cup before losing to Leicester City in the next round. In his absence, the chances of this momentum being affected are high. 

However, it seems that Tony will only be missing from the dugout. In his statement he assured fans that he will continue working with assistant manager Mark Venus and provide ‘counsel’. Mark Venus, Mowbray’s second in charge, will lead the team from the dugout till the English manager returns. The duo of Mark Venus and Mowbray have worked together at many clubs including Tony’s previous club, Sunderland. The duo understand each other well and Venus will look to minimize the impact of Mowbray’s temporary departure. 

When will Tony Mowbray return to Birmingham City dugout?

While Tony’s illness will keep him away for a while, the club has already offered a timeline on his return. In their statement, Birmingham City said that the manager will step away “for a period of approximately six to eight weeks”. If Tony does return according to the timeline set by the club, he will be able to oversee the final weeks of the Championship.

The Blues have extended their full support to the manager. Birmingham’s management has offered their backing to the manager and his wife, and seem to be planning the future with Tony in mind. Mowbray will be grateful to the management and will look to put his ailment in the past and return soon. We wish Tony a speedy recovery as well!