Health concerns for former Celtic manager Tony Mowbray

Concerning news today relating to the former Celtic defender and manager Tony Mowbray who is having to step down for a period as manager of Birmingham City due to medical concerns.

Birmingham City released a statement this morning to announce that Mowbray will be stepping down as manager for a period of around six to eight weeks, citing an unnamed illness as the cause for concern.

The 60-year-old former Celtic manager Wayne Rooney back in January, but will now be taking a break from his job due to his health issue.

It’s unclear how serious a situation this is for Tony, but there is hope that it’s a short-term health problem as Birmingham City confirmed that there are plans for Mowbray to return later this season.

Tony Mowbray had this to say: “Following my recent LMA Health Assessment I have received a medical diagnosis that will require me to receive treatment. Undergoing treatment will necessitate that I temporarily step away from the Technical Area as Manager of Birmingham City Football Club. Until I return, my Assistant Manager, Mark Venus, will take temporary charge of the team, supported by coaches Ashley Cole, Pete Shuttleworth and Maik Taylor. I will continue to provide advice and counsel while undergoing treatment.

“The Club has been incredibly supportive of me and my family and we are very grateful. I know that everyone will be respectful of our privacy at this time.”

Birmingham City Chief Executive Officer, Garry Cook, said: “Our thoughts are with Tony, his wife Amber, and family. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming Tony back to the Club to continue the excellent work that he has started. In the meantime, Mark Venus, Ashley Cole, Pete Shuttleworth and Maik Taylor, will be given all the support they need to lead the Club forward.”

Celtic supporters will join Birmingham’s own fans, and indeed everyone in football, in wishing Tony Mowbray well in his recovery. YNWA Tony!

Birmingham City can confirm that Manager, Tony Mowbray, requires medical treatment which means he will be temporarily stepping away from the on-site management of the Club for a period of approximately six to eight weeks.

— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) February 19, 2024