Survival Battle: Leicester City Appeal Points Deduction, Appoint Gary Rowett As New Manager

Leicester City has lodged an appeal against a points deduction and appointed Gary Rowett as manager until the end of the season, as they currently sit 22nd in the Championship, firmly in the relegation zone.

Rowett, 50, takes over from Martí Cifuentes, who was dismissed in January following a dismal run that saw the club secure only one Championship win since the start of 2026.

The former player, who made 49 league appearances for Leicester between 2000 and 2002, has managed clubs including Birmingham, Millwall, and most recently, Oxford United.

“I’m immensely proud to be the new Leicester City manager and to lead such a talented group in the coming months,” Rowett stated. “It’s clear what needs to be achieved before the season concludes, and the work begins immediately. I look forward to building relationships with the players, staff, and fans, all of which will be vital for securing the results we need.”

Club chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha commented: “Gary possesses deep knowledge of the Championship and understands the situation we face in these final 14 matches—a battle for survival. The entire club is focused on this task, and we will support Gary in finding the solutions we need.”

With 14 matches remaining, Rowett’s first challenge will be facing Stoke City on January 21. The situation has been exacerbated by a six-point deduction imposed by an independent commission for breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules, leaving them three points adrift of safety. The commission’s decision was ratified during an EFL board meeting on February 5 and is subject to urgent resolution by the Premier League.