Oxford United have sacked Gary Rowett with the club 22nd in the Championship, two points from the last safe spot.
The former Birmingham, Derby, Stoke and Millwall manager was appointed on 20 December 2024 after the departure of Des Buckingham, who had led Oxford to promotion from League One in the 2023-24 season.
Rowett kept the club in the second tier last season but the team have struggled this term. Saturday’s defeat at Charlton extended a lean run of one win in 10 matches.
Oxford’s chairman, Grant Ferguson, told the club’s website: “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.
“On behalf of the board, I would like to place on record our thanks to Gary and Mark for their contribution to the football club and to wish them all the best for the future.”
Craig Short has taken interim charge with Oxford next in action at home to Southampton on Boxing Day. Oxford have won one of their 10 games since the start of November.
