Gary Rowett could be back in Championship management sooner rather than later, with two clubs considering a move for the experienced coach.
The second tier has seen a flurry of managerial changes in recent weeks. Leicester City dismissed former QPR boss Marti Cifuentes last month and were then hit with a points deduction that has dragged them into a relegation battle. Blackburn Rovers have also been forced into change after parting company with Valerien Ismael on Deadline Day. An immediate win over Sheffield Wednesday offered brief optimism, but a 2-0 loss to Norwich City at the weekend underlined the urgency of appointing a permanent successor, with Rovers now sitting 22nd and inside the drop zone.
Rowett on the radar of Blackburn Rovers and Leicester City
Leicester and Blackburn are level on points and both are searching for a manager capable of steering them through a tense survival fight in the closing months of the season. Transfer insider Alan Nixon reports that Blackburn intend to hold talks with Rowett within the next two days as they look to bring their search to an end.
Rowett emerging as Blackburn’s top target comes after Leicester were said to have identified him as a leading option, alongside Hearts manager Derek McInnes, according to Football League World. However, it remains unclear whether Rowett will be tempted by either role. The 51 year old is believed to be keen on a long term project rather than a short term rescue job. Former West Ham manager Slaven Bilic reportedly declined the chance to enter talks with Blackburn last week for similar reasons.
Rowett reflects on Oxford United exit
Rowett enjoyed his longest spell in management at Millwall, where he spent four years in charge and oversaw 196 matches. He recorded 76 wins before leaving by mutual consent in October 2023. At the time, he said he felt the club had moved forward during his tenure and that the timing felt right for both parties to go their separate ways.
His most recent role was at Oxford United, where he was dismissed in December after a year in charge. Asked whether the decision surprised him, Rowett admitted it did to an extent, but stressed that results ultimately dictate outcomes in management. He explained that clubs fighting to stay in the Championship often feel compelled to take a gamble when form dips, even if that means changing head coach.
If Rowett were to take the Leicester job, he would face former club Millwall towards the end of April. Blackburn, meanwhile, are scheduled to meet the Lions on March 14.