Oxford United Sacks Head Coach Gary Rowett Amid Relegation Struggles
Oxford United has parted ways with head coach Gary Rowett as the club finds itself in the Championship relegation zone.
The U's have managed to secure only one victory in their last ten matches and are currently two points adrift of safety, having fallen into the bottom three just ten days ago.
Rowett, 51, had been at the helm for nearly a year, taking over from Des Buckingham on December 20, 2024. During his tenure, he recorded 14 wins and 21 losses across 50 matches.
He successfully guided Oxford to avoid relegation and secure a second season in the Championship last May, stepping in when the team was just a point above the drop zone following their League One play-off victory in 2024.
Alongside Rowett, his assistant Mark Sale has also left the club. Craig Short will take interim charge of the first team, supported by Chris Hackett and Lewis Price.
Oxford United chairman Grant Ferguson expressed his gratitude on the club's website, stating, "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. However, following a disappointing run of results, we have had to take this difficult decision in the best interests of the club. On behalf of the board, I would like to place on record our thanks to Gary and Mark for their contribution to the football club and wish them all the best for the future."