Former Leicester City defender Gary Rowett sacked as Oxford become seventh Championship club to change boss | OneFootball

Oxford United have sacked Gary Rowett, becoming the seventh Championship club to change manager this season.

The former Leicester City right-back spent a little over a year at the Kassam Stadium, steering survival last season but leaving with the side in the relegation zone at Christmas. Oxford chairman Grant Ferguson said Rowett earned credit for stabilising the club last term, but added that a poor run led to a difficult decision taken in the club’s best interests.

Oxford have won only one of their past 10 matches and were beaten 1-0 by Charlton at the weekend. They are 22nd, two points from safety.

They join Sheffield United, Watford, Southampton, Norwich, Swansea and Middlesbrough in making a change this season.

Former Norwich head coach Liam Manning is the early bookmakers' favourite to replace Rowett, having left after City’s 2-1 win at Carrow Road. Oxford are seeking a new head coach, with Craig Short installed as interim ahead of their Boxing Day meeting with Southampton.

Source: LeicesterMercury.co.uk