Former Cowes High School student Gary Rowett has parted company with Championship side Oxford United this morning (23rd December).
Oxford United confirmed Rowett’s departure in a statement released earlier today, with the decision taken after a damaging run of results left the club 22nd in the Championship table and inside the relegation places. Rowett leaves after almost a year in charge.
With Oxford United once again facing a relegation battle, the board opted to make a change in an attempt to halt the slide and revive their survival hopes.
Oxford United chairman Grant Ferguson said the decision had been taken in the best interests of the club, while also paying tribute to Rowett’s contribution. The club have said:
“Gary joined during a challenging period and deserves immense credit for the hard work and leadership that saw us retain our Championship status last season.
“However, following a disappointing run of results, we have had to take this difficult decision in the best interests of the Club.”
Rowett moved to the Isle of Wight as a child after his father, Eric, was appointed governor of Camp Hill prison. He attended Cowes High School, where his footballing ability first came to wider attention.
Aged just 15, Rowett was part of a Cowes High School side that reached the English Schools’ Football Association final at Goodison Park, a landmark moment that put him on the radar of professional scouts. Alongside his school football, he played for local youth side Gurnard Youth before leaving the Island as a teenager to join Cambridge United.
That move marked the start of a long professional playing career as a defender. He went on to represent Cambridge United, Everton, Derby County, Birmingham City, Leicester City and Charlton Athletic, before finishing his playing days at Burton Albion.
His transition into management began at Burton Albion, initially as player manager, and later included spells in charge of Birmingham City, Derby County, Stoke City and Millwall, as well as a second period at Birmingham, before taking up the Oxford United role in December 2024.
Rowett departs having secured Championship survival during his first months in charge, but with Oxford United again in relegation trouble, the club have chosen change over continuity.
