Tony Mowbray steps aside as Birmingham City manager after ex Celtic boss diagnosed with 'serious illness'

Tony Mowbray has been forced to temporarily step aside as Birmingham City manager for medical treatment.

Former Hibs and Celtic boss Mowbray was only appointed City boss in January as he replaced Wayne Rooney having managed Sunderland earlier in the season. But the Championship club announced today he will have to step aside after an unexpected medical diagnosis. While the club give a timeline of six to eight weeks, The Mirror report it is a "serious illness" and say it is unlikely Mowbray will be in the dugout again this season.

Mowbray said in a club statement: “Following my recent LMA Health Assessment I have received a medical diagnosis that will require me to receive treatment. Undergoing treatment will necessitate that I temporarily step away from the technical area as manager of Birmingham City. Until I return, my assistant manager, Mark Venus, will take temporary charge of the team, supported by coaches Ashley Cole, Pete Shuttleworth and Maik Taylor. I will continue to provide advice and counsel while undergoing treatment.

“The club has been incredibly supportive of me and my family and we are very grateful. I know that everyone will be respectful of our privacy at this time.”

Birmingham CEO Garry Cook added: “Our thoughts are with Tony, his wife Amber, and family. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming Tony back to the Club to continue the excellent work that he has started. In the meantime, Mark Venus, Ashley Cole, Pete Shuttleworth and Maik Taylor, will be given all the support they need to lead the Club forward.”