FORMER MIDDLESBROUGH and Sunderland head coach Tony Mowbray is back in management after taking charge of Blackburn Rovers for a second time.
Mowbray previously managed Blackburn between 2017 and 2022, when he guided Rovers back to the Championship at the first attempt before establishing the former Premier League winners back in the second tier.
Mowbray then went on to manage Sunderland, where he led the Black Cats to a surprise top six finish in their first season back in the Championship.
He was harshly sacked in December, 2023, and went on to manage Birmingham, but it was while he was in charge of the Blues that the 62-year-old was diagnosed with bowel cancer.
The “toughest year” of Mowbray’s life followed, but the former defender made a full recovery and told of his desire to get back into management.
Mowbray has been linked with several jobs but his Blackburn return was confirmed on Friday night. Rovers have been on the lookout for a new boss since Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill confirmed at the end of the season he wasn’t taking the job at Ewood Park in a permanent basis having led the side to Championship safety.
Mowbray, a Middlesbrough legend having captained and managed his hometown club, has signed a long-term contract at Ewood Park.
In a statement on Friday night, Blackburn said: “The 62-year-old returns to lead a new chapter for the club, bringing with him a wealth of experience, strong footballing principles and a clear understanding of the club’s identity and ambitions.
“Mowbray, who has also managed Hibs, West Bromwich Albion, Celtic, Middlesbrough, Coventry City, Sunderland and Birmingham City, will begin work immediately, as preparations for the upcoming season get underway.
“Everyone at Blackburn Rovers would like to extend a warm welcome back to Tony and we wish him every success upon his return to Ewood Park.
“Welcome home, Tony!”
