The latest on Tony Mowbray’s move to Birmingham City, as the club receives a positive response from fans.
Birmingham City are close to appointing Tony Mowbray as Wayne Rooney’s replacement. The former Sunderland, Blackburn Rovers, and West Bromwich Albion boss has held advanced conversations with the Blues hierarchy, and a two-and-a-half-year contract appears to be on the table.
The 60-year-old’s extensive experience in the Sky Bet Championship, as well as his offensive style of play, made him an obvious choice. Former Birmingham manager Gary Rowett was also considered, but Mowbray is regarded the more progressive candidate. The deal isn’t finished yet, but it’s on its way, according to The New York Times.
Mowbray has been a persistent figure in the English second division for a long time, having previously coached Coventry City, Blackburn Rovers, and Sunderland. He was also the head coach of West Brom from July 2004 to October 2009, memorably taking the Baggies back to the Premier League as champions in 2007/08.
His lifetime victory percentage is 41.26%, which is far higher than Rooney’s 13.3% at Birmingham. In comparison, John Eustace received 33.33%, Lee Bowyer received 28.8%, Aitor Karanka received 21.1%, Pep Clotet received 27.7%, and Garry Monk received 32.2%.
Birmingham has received a direct Mowbray answer
Blues fans have reacted enthusiastically to the Mowbray news, with many anticipating the possible Championship play-off contention he could bring in future seasons. This campaign is unrealistic for that, but Mowbray’s track record of top-six finishes gives the St Andrew’s faithful hope.
“Mowbray is perfect for #BCFC right now,” said @Matthewblue1875. He’ll keep us in the league, push us to the top of the table, promote youngsters, and execute a progressive type of football without losing fundamentals. He may not be the man to lift us up, but he will get us moving.”
“I’m actually really excited and 100% behind this Mowbray appointment,” stated @mynameismrjrb. Exactly the reverse of how I felt when Rooney was named. He’ll undoubtedly put a halt to the rot and get us playing some decent football. Let us sell off Swansea and rally around them.”
“Yes, it’s not a flashy appointment with a big name in charge,” @carlsumner93 said. But it’s a wise decision with Mowbray. Knows the division well, having managed an average Blackburn club that drew close to the playoffs and guiding Sunderland to the playoffs last season. That pleases me.”
@BluesJack_ stated, “Mowbray has done very well in most jobs he’s had, albeit with not the best squad.” I honestly feel he could make an impact with our existing roster and anybody he brings in.”
“Not that my opinion matters a jot, but Mowbray could be an astute signing,” said @JohnMoroney72. 68-70 points per season on average! When was the last time we even came close? We’d been partying at 50 points for who knows how long!! Will undoubtedly keep the squad, including youth players, on their toes.”
“I’ve started to really warm to the idea of Mowbray,” remarked @ToweringZigic. Some of the managers on that list would have made you nervous, but he’s the polar opposite. He’s not as flashy as Cooper or Hasenhuttl, but I think he’ll pleasantly surprise us.”
