Gary Rowett returns to Birmingham City as Tony Mowbray takes medical leave of absence
Mowbray is expected to be back for the pre-reason 2024/25.
Birmingham City have announced they are bringing Gary Rowett back on an interim basis with immediate effect as manager, Tony Mowbray, takes a medical leave of absence.
The club said they expect Mowbray to be away until the start of the pre-season 2024/25.
Rowett will oversee the remaining eight games of the Sky Bet Championship season.
Rowett was in charge of the Blues from October 2014 to December 2016.
In a statement on the website, the club said: "The decision was taken to act at the beginning of the international break by the Board and Leadership Team, in conjunction with Mowbray who played a role in the identification of Rowett as the right manager to take the team forward till the end of the season.
"The medical leave of absence will allow Mowbray to focus 100% on being with his family and making a full recovery following his recent health challenges."
Assistant manager, Mark Venus, will also take a leave of absence and will rejoin the club when Mowbray does.
Birmingham City co-owner and chairman of the board, Tom Wagner, said: “The Board and Club Leadership fully support Tony’s decision to take time to focus on his health and his family. We continue to wish Tony and his family the very best. Based on Tony’s decision to take some additional time away, we agreed it is in the Club’s best interests to appoint Gary Rowett to lead the team forward from the touchline for the final eight games of the season. Gary is an experienced leader and has our full support.”
CEO Garry Cook said: “The team is in a challenging position. A strong leader is needed to guide the players through to the end of the season. Tony wanted to be part of the solution, so together we agreed to identify an interim manager. Gary Rowett was the number one choice. We are pleased to welcome Gary back to Blues. He has the necessary experience and the requisite passion for the Club and our loyal fans. Gary will be provided all the support needed to keep the Club in the Sky Bet Championship.”
He added: “We all look forward to welcoming Tony and Mark back to the Club before the start of next season and continue to wish Tony a speedy recovery.”
Birmingham are only above the Championship's relegation zone on goal difference with eight matches remaining.