Bristol City identify Liam Manning successor, he’s been out of work since January.

Liam Manning signed a four-year contract with Norwich City on Tuesday, leaving Bristol City without a manager.

After weeks of negotiations, the Canaries were able to entice the 39-year-old away from the West Country as the Norfolk club prepares for a busy summer transfer window.

Norwich’s sporting director, Ben Knapper, is pleased with Manning’s appointment and plans to replicate Bristol City’s top six finish as they aim to return to the Premier League after relegation in 2022.

The Robins’ new manager appears to be a well-known name in the Championship, after several candidates were considered.

Bristol City prepares to hire Rob Edwards.

Bristol City can now begin the process of finding a replacement for Manning, but it appears that a decision has already been made.

According to the Stroud Times, Rob Edwards, a former head coach at Luton Town, will lead Ashton Gate for the upcoming season. This appointment will be timely as the transfer window is already open.

Edwards took over the Hatters in November 2022, and the campaign ended in spectacular fashion as the Bedfordshire club was promoted to the Premier League through the play-offs.

They only stayed in the top flight for one season, and relegation had a significant impact. Luton sacked Edwards in January, leaving the club in the drop zone. Matt Bloomfield was unable to save the Hatters, who now play in League One.

Rob Edwards is an exciting addition for the Robins.

Stopping players from following Manning to Norwich will be one of Edwards’ first priorities when he arrives in Bristol, but he understands the importance of winning promotion.

In 2021, he achieved success with Forest Green Rovers, winning the League Two title and advancing to League One to play against Bolton Wanderers, Derby County and Portsmouth.

His task is to rejuvenate a team that is still reeling from their play-off loss to Sheffield United. He already has a lot of talent on the team, with Scott Twine and Jason Knight standing out.

With exciting, quick football on the horizon, it would not be surprising if Bristol City challenged the top six once more.

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