Oxford United have parted company with manager Gary Rowett, leaving the club searching for a new boss while entrenched in a Championship relegation battle.
Rowett's Tenure Ends After Disappointing Run
The decision was confirmed by the club on Monday, with Oxford sitting 22nd in the Championship table, just two points from safety. Rowett's departure comes after a year in charge at the Kassam Stadium, having been appointed on 20 December 2024.
His initial impact was positive, steering the club away from danger to secure their second-tier status last season. However, the current campaign has proven far more difficult, with the team managing just one victory in their last ten matches since the start of November.
Chairman's Statement Credits Past Success
In an official statement on the club's website, Oxford chairman Grant Ferguson acknowledged Rowett's earlier contributions but stated the recent results forced the board's hand.
"Gary joined during a challenging period and deserves immense credit for the hard work and leadership that saw us retain our Championship status last season," Ferguson said. "However, following a disappointing run of results, we have had to take this difficult decision in the best interests of the club."
Rowett, who has previously managed Birmingham City, Derby County, Stoke City, and Millwall, now leaves with Oxford deep in trouble.
What Next for Oxford United?
The club has moved quickly to appoint a caretaker manager, with Craig Short taking interim charge of the first team. His first match will be a daunting Boxing Day fixture at home to promotion-chasing Southampton.
The immediate focus for the board will be to stabilise performances and secure crucial points in their fight for survival. The Championship table highlights the scale of the task:
- 20th: Blackburn Rovers - 25 points
- 21st: Portsmouth - 21 points
- 22nd: Oxford United - 19 points
- 23rd: Norwich City - 18 points
The search for a permanent successor to Rowett will now begin in earnest, with the new manager facing a critical mission to keep Oxford in the Championship.
