Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler has joined a long list of soccer managers who have lost their job. The man known as ‘God’ from his playing days has proven to be a mortal in his managerial career. Fowler returned to England after the A-League competition was suspended in March because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With firm overseas restrictions in place in Australia, there was little hope of a second coming for Fowler. The Brisbane Roar officially cut ties, instead preferring to move forward with a search for a local coach.
Capped 26-times for England, Fowler was appointed to the Roar on a two-year contract last April, taking over from John Aloisi. Fowler overhauled the squad, leading the side to 10 wins in his first full-time coaching role. The Roar were sitting in fourth place when the season was suspended in March.
The Liverpool great told English soccer show Soccer AM that he and former assistant Tony Grant would not be returning when the A-League recommences on July 16.
“On behalf of myself and Tony, I would like to thank the club for the opportunity, and the Brisbane Roar FC fans for the warm welcome and support for me and the team, we are very proud of what we achieved,” Fowler said.
A statement from Brisbane Roar Football Club: https://t.co/tkN8amnGWS pic.twitter.com/ylIefPHmsH
— Brisbane Roar FC (@brisbaneroar) June 29, 2020
Brisbane Roar Deputy Chairman Chris Fong paid tribute to the Liverpool great:
“Robbie has not only provided stability but a refreshing injection of knowledge and insight into the Roar. We are disappointed that the global pandemic has impacted our plans together but completely understand that family comes first during these difficult times. The world has changed, we never expected this. It’s a shame because the way we were building was beautiful.”
Fowler is being chased by a number of English based clubs, and is the favourite to land the managerial role at Birmingham City.
Former Welsh U/21 player Darren Davies, has taken over the Roar head coaching role on an interim basis and will alongside former Roar midfielder Warren Moon for the remaining four games of the season.
