Leicester City are reportedly weighing up a move for Gary Rowett as they continue the search for a new manager, although competition could make the task far from straightforward.
The Foxes are hovering dangerously close to the Championship relegation places, with only goal difference keeping them above the bottom three. A six point penalty for financial breaches has already dragged them into trouble, and Saturday’s 2-1 loss to promotion hopefuls Birmingham City only deepened the crisis.
Leicester are now five league matches without a victory and have suffered three defeats in a row. On top of that, they are still without a permanent successor to Marti Cifuentes, who was recently dismissed.
According to journalist Alan Nixon, writing on Patreon, Rowett has emerged as a potential candidate for the vacancy at the King Power Stadium. However, Leicester are not alone in their interest, with Blackburn Rovers also believed to be keen.
Rovers are said to have placed Rowett at the top of their shortlist and are preparing to hold talks in an effort to fend off interest from Leicester. Nixon suggests the Foxes’ involvement represents a serious obstacle to Blackburn’s hopes of securing the 51 year old.
Rowett, who has previously managed Birmingham City, Millwall, Derby County and Oxford United, is reportedly one of several experienced coaches under consideration as Leicester look for stability.
Andy King has already made it clear that his current role is strictly temporary and that he does not see himself as the long term solution. Despite that, there is no obvious frontrunner yet to take charge during a critical stage of the season.
Supporters, however, have their own favourite. Nigel Pearson’s name rang out from the away end during the first half at St Andrew’s, a reminder of how fondly he is still regarded by the fanbase.
Reflecting on the points deduction after the defeat to Birmingham, King said: “We spoke about it once we got the confirmation. It gives us real clarity on where we stand in the table. Now we know exactly what’s required, with 15 games left to make sure we stay above that line.
“We can’t be arrogant or think everything will be fine. The reality is that our performances, not just in the last couple of games but over a longer spell, haven’t been good enough and they have to improve.”