'I've heard...' - Insider shares update on Steve Bruce landing Oxford United job
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Steve Bruce in Contention to Land Oxford United Job After John Terry Snub
Oxford United have sacked head coach Gary Rowett following a 1-0 defeat to Charlton Athletic, leaving the club in the Championship relegation zone, just two points from safety ahead of Christmas.[1][2][3] The decision came after a dismal run, with only one win in their last ten league games and no away victory since October, prompting chairman Grant Ferguson to seek an urgent change despite crediting Rowett for last season's survival.[2]
Now, Steve Bruce emerges as a leading contender for the vacant role, listed as second-favorite at 6/1 odds by bookmakers.[1][2][3] The veteran manager, recently sacked by Blackpool in October 2025 after a poor start in League One, is reportedly in major contention for a Championship return.[1][4] Bruce's extensive career includes serial promotions but recent struggles, such as his sacking from West Brom in 2022 after relegation threats.[1][4]
Exclusive reports name Liam Manning, sacked from Norwich last month, as another front-runner alongside Bruce.[2] Other outsiders include Michael Carrick (12/1), Russell Martin (14/1), and Neil Warnock (20/1).[1] The article hints at a "John Terry snub," suggesting the former defender was considered but overlooked in favor of more experienced options like Bruce.[3]
Oxford face a defining festive period: hosting Southampton on Boxing Day and Swansea three days later, followed by tough away trips to Ipswich and Sheffield United.[2] With survival on the line, the hierarchy aims to appoint a gaffer capable of steering the U's—last season's League One play-off winners—clear of the drop for a third straight top-flight campaign.[1][2]
Bruce, a former player at Manchester United and Newcastle, brings vast experience but admitted last month it's unlikely he'll manage again, though he hasn't ruled out advisory roles.[4] The Kassam Stadium job represents a surprise lifeline amid his recent disasters.[1]
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