Birmingham City board reveal why they appointed former Blackburn Rovers, Coventry City and Middlesbrough boss Tony Mowbray

Birmingham City believe that Tony Mowbray is the 'right leader at the right time' after appointing him as their new first-team on a two-and-a-half-year deal.

The 60-year-old has been appointed as the new boss of Blues, with their search for a new boss lasting just six days. Wayne Rooney was sacked after just 15 games, and now Birmingham City have turned to someone with more than 850 games in football management.

Mowbray had only been out of work for five weeks after a harsh sacking at Sunderland, and has now been given a swift route back into football. In Birmingham City's search for a new boss they did their due diligence on the former Celtic boss by canvassing an opinion on him from those outside of Birmingham. All feedback was positive and that is why he has been chosen as the man to lead the club foward.

Co-owner and Chairman Tom Wagner said on the official club website: "Tony was the standout candidate in our search for a new Manager. His knowledge of and passion for the game shone through. He shares our ambition and will bring stability at an important time for our great club.

"We received extremely positive feedback from everyone we spoke to about Tony. I am looking forward to seeing him working with the team and he will get the support needed to bring success to the Club.”

Birmingham City Chief Executive Officer, Garry Cook was in agreement with Wagner, and went so far to say that he believes Mowbray is the right man for the right time at this club. Cook was influential in bringing Rooney to the club, and in his five months in the role has already seen three managers during his tenure.

He added: “We are delighted to welcome Tony Mowbray to Birmingham City. Tony is a widely respected figure in the game and brings a wealth of Championship experience.

"He knows what it takes to be successful at this level. Tony has rightfully earned a reputation as a manager who delivers results, likes to play attractive football, and gives young players a chance. He is the right leader at the right time for our club and I know that our supporters will be right behind him and the team.”