Huddersfield Town appoint Liam Manning as head coach | OneFootball

Huddersfield Town have appointed Liam Manning as head coach on a long-term contract, entrusting the 40-year-old with the task of steering the club’s promotion ambitions in League One, as reported by BBC Sport.

Manning arrives at the Accu Stadium just three days after the dismissal of Lee Grant, whose eight-month spell ended despite the Terriers sitting sixth in the table. The decision underlines Huddersfield’s intent to accelerate their progress rather than settle for consolidation.

“I am thankful to have been given the trust of such a prestigious role,” Manning said. “Inheriting an extremely talented and capable squad, we have a lot still to play for this season, and I’m truly excited to get going.”

The appointment represents a swift return to management for Manning, who was relieved of his duties at Norwich City in November after a difficult five-month stint that left the Canaries second from bottom of the Championship. That setback followed a period of growing reputation, having guided Bristol City into the Championship play-offs last season, their first appearance at that stage since 2008.

Manning has built a track record of promoting progressive football and competing at the top end of League One. He reached the play-offs with MK Dons in 2022 and had Oxford United in the automatic promotion places during the 2023-24 campaign before his move to Ashton Gate.

Huddersfield sporting director Chris Markham described the appointment as “ambitious”, adding that Manning’s “progressive and pragmatic” approach aligns closely with the club’s values.

Manning has already overseen his first training session and will take charge for Saturday’s clash with promotion rivals Bradford City. Further details of his backroom staff are expected soon, with long-time assistant Chris Hogg a likely inclusion.

GFN | Finn Entwistle