Rowett set for Birmingham

Gary Rowett has left his role as manager of Burton Albion to take charge of Birmingham City, the League Two club have confirmed.

Former Birmingham defender Rowett had been at Burton since 2005 – initially joining as a player before going on to serve as assistant, caretaker and manager at the club.

During his time as permanent boss at the Pirelli Stadium, Rowett achieved two play-off finishes – reaching the final at Wembley last term before losing out to Fleetwood Town.

He takes over a Birmingham side at a low ebb, after they were hammered 8-0 at home by Bournemouth on Sunday under the guidance of caretaker boss Malcolm Crosby.

Crosby assumed control after the sacking of Lee Clark, with Burton chairman Ben Robinson wishing Rowett well in his role at St Andrew’s.

“After the success Gary has achieved at Burton Albion over the last three years it was inevitable that there would be interest from other clubs,” Robinson said in a statement.

“Gary is an ambitious young manager and the offer from one of his former clubs playing Championship football was one he wanted to take. We wish him well and thank Gary and his coaching team for what they have done for the club.”

Head of Burton’s academy Mike Whitlow will take control of first-team affairs on a caretaker basis initially until Rowett’s replacement is appointed.

“We will start the search for Gary’s successor immediately and know we will attract a lot of high calibre applicants for what is a very attractive job,” Robinson added.