Birmingham manager Tony Mowbray is temporarily stepping away from his role for around six to eight weeks to undergo medical treatment, the club have confirmed.
Mowbray, who was hired by the Blues in January after the sacking of Wayne Rooney after only 83 days in charge, is passing responsibility to his assistant, Mark Venus.
Birmingham have not disclosed what is wrong with Mowbray, but said he expects to be away from the team for six to eight weeks.
Since taking charge, Mowbray has guided Birmingham away from the relegation places and they currently sit 15th in the Championship following back-to-back wins over Blackburn and Sunderland, six points above the bottom three.
Mowbray said on Monday: “Following my recent LMA Health Assessment I have received a medical diagnosis that will require me to receive treatment.
“Undergoing treatment will necessitate that I temporarily step away from the Technical Area as Manager of Birmingham City Football Club.
“Until I return, my Assistant Manager, Mark Venus, will take temporary charge of the team, supported by coaches Ashley Cole, Pete Shuttleworth and Maik Taylor.
Birmingham City can confirm that Manager, Tony Mowbray, requires medical treatment which means he will be temporarily stepping away from the on-site management of the Club for a period of approximately six to eight weeks.
— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) February 19, 2024
“I will continue to provide advice and counsel while undergoing treatment.
“The Club has been incredibly supportive of me and my family and we are very grateful. I know that everyone will be respectful of our privacy at this time.”
Birmingham’s CEO Garry Cook added: “Our thoughts are with Tony, his wife Amber, and family. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming Tony back to the Club to continue the excellent work that he has started.
“In the meantime, Mark Venus, Ashley Cole, Pete Shuttleworth and Maik Taylor, will be given all the support they need to lead the Club forward.”
