Ex-Newport County manager James Rowberry has emerged as a leading candidate to take over from Jim McNulty as the manager of relegated Rochdale according to The Sun.
It’s been a season to forget at the Spotland stadium as Rochdale came tumbling out of the EFL, putting an end to their 102-year stay and condemning them to life in the National League. Following what would be considered the worst time in the club’s history, ex-manager Jim Bentley was shown the door back in March 2023. Since his departure, Jim McNulty took over as the club’s caretaker manager. Since March, McNulty has overseen an upturn in form at Dale, guiding the club to three wins, three draws and just two defeats in eight games.
It has been documented that McNulty wants to stay on as Rochdale boss on a permanent basis. Despite the upturn in form following Bentley’s departure, it proved too little too late as Dale were relegated from the Football League.
McNulty, according to the report, may have some competition for the top job at Dale with ex-Newport County boss James Rowberry entering the fray as a leading candidate.
Who is James Rowberry?
Rowberry, 38, has spent the majority of his career at Cardiff City as assistant manager. Eventually, he got his first job as a first-team Manager, taking over as boss of Newport County in October 2021. However, it wasn’t to be for him at The Exiles as he was dismissed a year after taking the job, following a disappointing start to the new campaign.
In total Rowberry has taken charge of 56 games and his record stands at 22 wins, 9 draws and 23 defeats.
Writer’s View
It’s certainly one that has come out of the blue, but the question should be if either of them are the right person to lead Rochdale back into the Football League? I’m not convinced.
At the moment Rochdale are in a downward spiral that needs to be stopped. Whilst both candidates have their own impressive qualities, maybe someone with more experience would be better suited to take on the role at Spotland.
If I was to pick one, it would be McNulty as his knowledge of the club provides an edge over Rowberry.
