Aaron Ramsey: Arsenal favourite takes on mammoth task in first managerial role | OneFootball

Relegation-battling Cardiff City announced on Saturday the dismissal of manager Omer Riza and confirmed former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey as his interim successor.

Ramsey, who also played for Juventus during the peak of his career, has been limited to just six league starts this season by chronic hamstring injuries. In fact, such has been Cardiff's dire form, vice-captain Ramsey is yet to feature in a single Championship victory this term.

The 34-year-old will get the chance to influence proceedings from the technical area as he embarks upon the first managerial post of his career. Ramsey begins what is billed as a short-term reign with the visit of Oxford United on Monday before Cardiff host West Bromwich Albion next weekend and end an underwhelming campaign away to Norwich City.

Riza was initially appointed on an interim basis this season after taking over from Erol Bulut in September. The former Watford assistant manager left Cardiff second-bottom in England's second tier, one point adrift of Derby County in 21st.

"We'd like to thank Omer for his passion and effort during his time as Cardiff City manager and wish him the very best for his next steps in the game," a club statement read. "Chris Gunter, Joe Ralls, Tom Hutton, Matthew Bloxham and Gavin Ward will join Aaron in the technical area."

Ramsey earned his UEFA A coaching licence in September and has been tipped to test his tactical wits out "at a high level" by his international manager Craig Bellamy. During his long spells on the sidelines this season, the Welsh icon has been deployed as a match analyst for Cardiff, offering insights to Riza from high in the stands.

"I've been around the [under]-18s a few times at Cardiff and been lucky enough to coach them," Ramsey told Sky Sports in October. "It's addictive as well and you do watch games differently."

Ramsey will be treated to a completely different view of the match when he watches on from the dugout against Oxford United on Monday.