Gary Rowett’s extensive Championship pedigree persuaded Leicester City chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha to hand him responsibility for the club’s survival push.
The appointment comes 24 days after the exit of Marti Cifuentes, with Leicester having slipped into the relegation zone at the weekend. The message from the hierarchy is clear. Staying in the division is the only priority between now and the end of the season.
Rowett has been a familiar figure in the Championship for more than a decade, managing multiple clubs and gaining a thorough understanding of the league’s demands. That background was viewed as essential with just 14 matches remaining and the pressure intensifying.
The chairman stressed that the entire club is united behind the objective of avoiding a drop into League One and pledged full support to help the new manager deliver the results required.
Gratitude was also extended to Andy King, who oversaw the previous four fixtures as caretaker during a turbulent spell. He will return to his role within the first team coaching setup, ensuring continuity. Adam Sadler remains part of the backroom staff, while set piece coach Andy Hughes and incoming assistant Callum Davidson will work alongside Rowett as he settles into the job.
Leicester’s new manager begins his tenure with a trip to Stoke City on Saturday, facing one of his former clubs in what is an immediate test of their resolve. He is scheduled to address the media for the first time on Thursday afternoon as preparations intensify for the run in.