Birmingham City release sudden John Eustace statement amid Wayne Rooney speculation

Eustace guided Blues to an impressive 17th-place finish with severely limited resources last season and he departs with Birmingham in sixth.

It’s been an extraordinary start to the 2023/24 campaign, exceeding all expectations, but Eustace has been relieved of his duties. Wayne Rooney is hotly tipped to come in as his replacement.

Birmingham City’s full statement reads as follows: “It is essential that the Board of Directors and the football management are fully aligned on the importance of implementing a winning mentality and a culture of ambition across the entire Football Club.

“With this in mind, Birmingham City has today parted company with Head Coach, John Eustace.

“Eustace departs after 15 months in charge, having helped to stabilise and strengthen the Club on the pitch following his appointment in July 2022.

“In his first season at the helm, he guided the team to a 17th-place finish, securing Sky Bet Championship status with three games remaining.

“During his time at St. Andrew’s, he galvanised the squad to deliver a number of memorable moments in testing circumstances.

“The Club would like to thank John for his contribution. His dedication and work ethic was evident throughout his time in B9 and he will always be welcomed back to St. Andrew’s.

“A new First Team Manager will be announced in the coming days who will be responsible for creating an identity and clear ‘no fear’ playing style that all Birmingham City teams will adopt and embrace.

“The Club will be issuing no further comment at this time.”