October 15, 2024
Liam Manning, a former Ipswich Town academy player and coach, has received an outpouring of support following the tragic death of his baby son, Theo.
On Tuesday, Bristol City confirmed that Manning, their 39-year-old manager, will take a break from his role to cope with the loss. The Championship club expressed that they are “deeply saddened” and extended their condolences to the family.
Manning joined Bristol City as head coach in 2023 after previously being part of Ipswich Town’s academy from 2002 to 2004. In a statement, Bristol City shared on social media:
“Everyone at Bristol City Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Liam’s recently born son Theo John Manning.” They also mentioned the football community’s support and urged fans to respect the family’s privacy during this time. Manning’s assistant, Chris Hogg, will handle football responsibilities in his absence.
Ipswich Town, where Manning began his career, also offered their sympathies on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Everyone at Ipswich Town sends their love to Liam and the Manning family.”
After his release from Ipswich’s academy in 2005, Manning played for several non-league teams before retiring at Ipswich Wanderers.
Post-retirement, he transitioned into coaching, mentoring players like Connor Wickham and Andre Dozzell at Ipswich before joining West Ham in 2015. Now, Chris Hogg will oversee Bristol City’s football duties while Manning is away.
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