Tony Mowbray steps down as Birmingham boss after ill health

Birmingham have confirmed the resignation of Tony Mowbray with immediate effect.

Mowbray replaced Wayne Rooney as Blues boss in January and won four of his first eight games as well as securing progress to the fourth round of the FA Cup.

But the former Blackburn man had to step down in March after undergoing surgery.

Mowbray did not return for the rest of the season as the Midlands club were relegated to League One on the final day of the Championship season.

And now it has been confirmed that the 60-year-old will focus on his health and not return to St Andrews.

“As people will be aware, I am currently undertaking an extended period of recovery following significant and unexpected surgery at the start of the year which required me to take a period of sick leave,” Mowbray told the club’s official website.

“Throughout this period I have watched every Birmingham City game along with every training session, while staying in a positive and constructive dialogue with Tom Wagner, Garry Cook and Craig Gardner.

“In recent days it has become apparent to me that I will not be fully fit to resume my duties as manager of Birmingham City in the timeframe that would allow the club to best prepare for next season and therefore from unfortunately I have decided to step away from my role at this time.

“Once I’ve fully recovered, it’s important for me to spend some quality time with my wife and boys before fully committing to work.

“I am extremely grateful to Tom Wagner for the genuine warmth he has shown towards me during what has been a difficult time, not only for me personally but also for the Club. I strongly believe that under Tom’s leadership, together with the footballing expertise that Garry provides, Birmingham City have a very bright future ahead of them.

“I would like to thank everyone associated with the club who have supported me through these unprecedented times and I would like to thank the Birmingham City supporters in particular for your affection, kindness and support during the relatively short time I have . been with the Club. As I step down as manager of Birmingham City, I now become a Blues fan and wish everyone at the Club nothing but absolute success for the future.

“Once I have fully recovered and spent some quality time with my family, I intend to return to football management at the appropriate time. I hope my family’s and my privacy will be respected at this time. Thanks for your continued support, Tony.”