Gary Rowett, the former manager of Millwall and Birmingham City, is on the verge of making a managerial comeback with struggling Championship side Oxford United.
According to reports from The Telegraph, Rowett is the leading candidate for the job, with negotiations said to be in advanced stages.
Rowett in Advanced Talks
Rowett, a former Blackpool defender during his playing days, has significant managerial experience in the Championship. He has overseen 370 games in English football’s second tier and has a proven track record, having led Derby County to the playoffs and secured top-half finishes with Birmingham City and Millwall.
Oxford United parted ways with Des Buckingham earlier this week after a six-game winless run left the club hovering just one point above the relegation zone. The U’s are eager to bring in a manager with Rowett’s pedigree to steady the ship and guide them to safety.
Rowett’s last managerial role was an interim stint at Birmingham City, where he faced a challenging situation but was unable to prevent their relegation. Despite this, his accomplishments at Derby and Millwall highlight his capability to build competitive squads and deliver results under pressure.
Challenges at Oxford
Oxford’s struggles this season have put them in a precarious position. The team’s recent defeat to Sheffield Wednesday only deepened concerns as rivals Portsmouth, in 22nd place, still have a game in hand. Rowett’s immediate task, should he take the role, will be to rebuild confidence and address the team’s defensive frailties.
Oxford United’s board is said to favour Rowett’s Championship experience and pragmatic approach, believing he is well-suited to navigate the challenges of a relegation battle. His ability to galvanise squads and implement a solid defensive structure will be key if the U’s are to retain their Championship status.
Writer’s View
Rowett’s potential appointment at Oxford United marks a calculated move by the club. His managerial experience, particularly in stabilising teams under pressure, could be exactly what Oxford need to turn their fortunes around. While the challenge is significant, Rowett has shown throughout his career that he is adept at dealing with adversity, and this could prove to be another chapter in his story of resilience and success.
