Oxford United sack Gary Rowett | OneFootball

BBC Sport have reported that Oxford United have sacked head coach Gary Rowett after a run of just one win in 10 Championship matches left the club in the relegation zone.

The U’s are two points from safety after slipping into the bottom three earlier this month. Rowett, 51, had been in charge for almost a year, having taken over from Des Buckingham in December 2024.

Rowett was appointed during a difficult period last season and successfully guided Oxford to Championship survival, finishing 17th after a strong run of results. However, that form has not carried into the current campaign.

Oxford have struggled this season, winning only four league games and scoring 22 goals, the fourth-lowest total in the division. Their most recent victory came against Ipswich Town on 28 November, with performances since then increasing pressure on the head coach.

Chairman Grant Ferguson thanked Rowett for his work, saying he “deserves immense credit” for keeping the club in the Championship last season, but added that recent results forced the board to act “in the best interests of the club”.

Assistant manager Mark Sale has also left the club and Craig Short will take interim charge, supported by Chris Hackett and Lewis Price.

Oxford will begin the search for a new head coach immediately. Short will oversee preparations for their next match, at home to Southampton on Boxing Day, as the club look to pull clear of relegation trouble.

GFN | Finn Entwistle