Bristol City have announced that manager Liam Manning, a former Town academy player and coach, is taking a leave of absence following the death of his newborn son.

A statement on the Robins’ club website reads: “Everyone at Bristol City Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Liam’s recently born son Theo John Manning.

“We know that Bristol City’s supporters and the wider football family will share their condolences and deepest sympathy with Liam, his wife Fran and his son Isaac during this difficult period.

“Liam will take a period of absence, and all football duties will be carried out by Chris Hogg. We ask that the privacy of Liam and his family is respected during this time.”

Manning was an academy midfielder with the Blues in the early 2000s before returning to Playford Road as a coach later in the decade during which time he met wife Fran, who worked at Town as PA to a number of managers.

In response to a Bristol City’s announcement, Town tweeted: “Everyone at Ipswich Town sends their love to Liam and the Manning family. We're thinking of you all. 💙”

Photo: ITFC

Gilesy added 17:52 - Oct 14 How completely heartbreaking.
4

TresBonne added 18:15 - Oct 14 Terribly sad news, always gets me in my feels when I hear about something like this. RIP Theo, Liam has always come across as such a top guy.
5

TheBoyBlue added 18:44 - Oct 14 How dreadfully sad, really heartbreaking. Thinking of him and his family at this time.
3

Bazza8564 added 18:54 - Oct 14 Ive always like Liam, to think that he and his family are having to go through this heartbreak is awful. RIP young Theo
4

Help added 19:03 - Oct 14 Thoughts are with you at this time
2

benslifeyt added 19:43 - Oct 14 Having previously been trained by Liam when I was younger and knowing what a great person he is . I’m gutted for him thinking of him and his family at this terrible time
2

planetblue_2011 added 09:58 - Oct 15 So sorry to hear this heartbreaking news.
1

Dissboyitfc added 10:08 - Oct 15 I can’t begin to imagine how Liam and his family are feeling right now! Sincerest condolences to the manning Family! Rest in peace Theo
1

Blogs 298 bloggers

Ipswich Town Polls