Former Queens Park Rangers manager Gareth Ainsworth is reportedly under consideration for the Burton Albion manager’s position, as the League One club looks to change course amid a rocky start to the season.
A Rocky Season for Burton Albion
Burton Albion have endured a challenging beginning to their League One campaign, languishing at the bottom of the table with no wins in their first 12 fixtures. Their recent 1-0 loss to Cambridge United underscored their struggles, leaving the Brewers with only four points as they battle to find form. The club’s recent parting with manager Mark Robinson reflects a need for change, and Ainsworth’s extensive experience in English football has put him in the frame to lead Burton’s charge to survival.
Ainsworth, now 51, has been without a club for over a year since his departure from QPR. His exit from the London side last October capped a disappointing tenure where he secured only five victories out of 28 matches. Despite this, his past achievements, especially with Wycombe Wanderers, underscore a manager with the potential to rebuild struggling teams.
Ainsworth’s Managerial Journey
Ainsworth’s playing career spanned stints with clubs such as Preston North End, Port Vale, and QPR before he retired in 2013. His transition to management quickly proved successful when he took the helm at Wycombe Wanderers in 2012, a position he held for over a decade. His leadership not only elevated the team’s status but helped build a loyal fanbase. Guiding Wycombe from the depths of League Two to the heights of the Championship, Ainsworth crafted a reputation as a gritty and determined manager.
After a rewarding spell at Wycombe, QPR recruited Ainsworth in 2023. Yet, his time with the West London side was challenging, ultimately resulting in an early exit due to unsatisfactory results. Since then, Ainsworth has taken time to reassess his career options, remaining open to new opportunities and eager to reestablish himself in football management.
Writer’s View
For Burton, Ainsworth’s appointment could be a calculated risk with significant upside. His history at Wycombe suggests he is capable of fostering resilience and ambition within a team, qualities Burton Albion need if they are to climb out of the relegation zone. With a track record of transforming clubs and an undeniable desire to prove himself after a rough stint at QPR, Ainsworth may bring the steady leadership and tactical insight Burton need to find stability in League One.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
