Oxford United terminate Rowett’s contract with the club in Championship relegation zone
Oxford United has dismissed head coach Gary Rowett while the team finds itself in the Championship relegation zone. Rowett had led the U’s for exactly one year and three days when his exit was made public on Tuesday. The 51-year-old ensured Oxford’s survival in the second tier after taking over from Des Buckingham at the Kassam Stadium last season. Nevertheless, Oxford currently ranks 22nd in the Championship standings, having suffered 12 defeats and managed just four victories from their 22 matches to date this season.
Oxford United can confirm that Gary Rowett has left his position as Men’s First Team Head Coach. The Club wishes to express its gratitude to Gary for his contributions to the Football Club. https://t.co/vttxpQKyO9 pic.twitter.com/pvBb6BuM46
— Oxford United (@OUFCOfficial) December 23, 2025
Saturday’s 1-0 defeat against Charlton Athletic was Rowett’s last match, with the club expressing appreciation for his services. Assistant coach Mark Sale has also left, while Craig Short will temporarily oversee coaching duties with Chris Hackett and Lewis Price. Chairman Grant Ferguson stated: “Gary joined during a challenging time and deserves significant praise for the dedication and guidance that helped us maintain our Championship status last season. However, after a disappointing series of results, we’ve had to make this tough decision for the club’s best interest. On behalf of the board, I would like to extend our thanks to Gary and Mark for their roles in the club and wish them well in the future.” Oxford will return to action on Friday with a home game against 11th-placed Southampton.
Published: 2025-12-23 18:17:00
source: www.soccernews.com
