Yahoo News Birmingham City confirm Tony Mowbray has stepped down permanently
Birmingham City have announced that Tony Mowbray has permanently stepped down from his position as first team manager.
The former Sunderland, Blackburn Rovers and West Bromwich Albion boss stepped away from his duties in February to undergo treatment following a medical diagnosis. His assistant Mark Venus took temporary charge before Gary Rowett was drafted in on an interim basis to try and save Blues from relegation to League One.
Blues were ultimately unsuccessful in their quest to avoid the drop and have sought clarity on their managerial situation this week ahead of what will be a busy summer of recruitment and planning. Chief executive Garry Cook has held talks with Mowbray and his representatives and it has been decided that the 60-year-old will step aside.
Mowbray’s departure leaves Blues searching for their fourth permanent manager since American investment firm Knighthead took control of the club last July. John Eustace and Wayne Rooney have previously held the position on a permanent basis.
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CEO Cook said: "We have been looking forward to Tony returning to the Club and to continue the great work that he started earlier this year. Unfortunately, it is not to be.
"Preparation for the new season has already begun and Tony told us that, based on his treatment and recovery programme, he would not be able to do the job that is required before the new season begins. I would personally like to commend Tony for informing us of his decision so soon after the end of the season. It provides us the opportunity to undertake a rigorous search process to identify the right leader to take our club forward and have that person in place before the start of pre-season.
"On behalf of everyone at the Club, and our supporters, I would like to thank Tony for the excellent job that he did for Blues. We wish Tony a full and speedy recovery.”
