Next Birmingham City manager: New list fronted by former Derby County and Sunderland men

Blues are being meticulous with their search as they look to learn from mistakes, attempting to avoid a repeat of the managerial merry-go-round of last season.

Six different faces took to the dugout for Birmingham in 2023/24 despite the tremendous, play-off eyeing start. Supporters were raged when John Eustace was peculiarly sacked in October and Wayne Rooney’s subsequent appointment then sent Blues down a bumpy path to relegation.

Mowbray’s arrival offered plenty of promise but an unprecedented situation led to his temporary - and then permanent - departure before he could even get properly started. The 60-year-old’s health and recovery from unexpected surgery understandably took priority and his recuperation continues.

Birmingham must now move on after their painful relegation to League One, with an immediate bounce back up to the Championship the clear target. An experienced manager is desired but also one that can excite fans with attacking, possession-based football.

Alex Neil, out of a job since leaving Stoke City in December of last year, has been heavily linked ever since Mowbray’s departure was confirmed. Liam Rosenior, recently let go by Hull City, was another mentioned but it quickly became obvious the 39-year-old wasn’t interested.

Chelsea and England legend Frank Lampard has been a more recent name seemingly in the equation. The 106-time Three Lions international most recently returned to Stamford Bridge on an interim basis after leading the Blues in the dugout between 2019 and 2021. He’s also had stints at Derby County and Everton during his young managerial career.

The latest favourites to become the next Birmingham manager

With several head coaches linked, it’s tricky to determine just who could be heading to St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park. Although there are no official markets for punters, one website has still created a list of favourites. Here’s a run-through.

• Alex Neil - 6/4 (40% probability)
• Frank Lampard - 3/1 (25% probability)
• Liam Rosenior - 7/2 (22.2% probability)
• Gary Rowett - 7/2 (22.2% probability)
• Darren Ferguson - 4/1 (20% probability)
• Paul Heckingbottom - 9/2 (18.2% probability)
• Ashley Cole - 5/1 (16.7% probability)
• David Wagner - 6/1 (14.3% probability)
• Will Still - 13/2 (13.3% probability)
• Michael Beale - 7/1 (12.5% probability)
• Scott Parker - 10/1 (9.1% probability)
• Steve Bruce - 14/1 (6.7% probability)