QPR rivals 'in talks' over new manager ahead of mammoth Loftus Road six-pointer

QPR relegation rivals Birmingham City are 'in talks' to appoint former Millwall boss Gary Rowett as interim head coach until the end of season. The appointment is set to take place ahead of next Friday's mammoth six-pointer at Loftus Road.

According to The Daily Mail, Rowett is set to become the fourth person to take charge of the Blues' first team this season. He follows John Eustace, Wayne Rooney, Tony Mowbray and caretaker Mark Venus.

Mowbray was forced to step away from the role for health reasons earlier this year and underwent a medical procedure last month. The veteran is set to return to the position once recovered with Rowett arriving on what would be a temporary basis.

It's crunch time in the Championship for Birmingham City, who sit 21st in the second tier, level on points with Huddersfield Town in 22nd and the relegation zone. The Midlands side are just one point behind Marti Cifuentes' side in 20th.

QPR welcome Birmingham City to Loftus Road on Friday, March 29 in what could be a season-deciding fixture for both sides. QPR also play Sheffield Wednesday on April 6 in another big relegation fixture.

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Since Mowbray was forced to step away from work in February, Birmingham City have failed to win a match, losing five and drawing one in a poor run of form. It's been tough to take for the outfit, who had been improved under former Sunderland boss Mowbray.

Explaining his situation on February 19, Mowbray said: "Mowbray said: “Following my recent LMA Health Assessment I have received a medical diagnosis that will require me to receive treatment. Undergoing treatment will necessitate that I temporarily step away from the Technical Area as Manager of Birmingham City Football Club. Until I return, my Assistant Manager, Mark Venus, will take temporary charge of the team, supported by coaches Ashley Cole, Pete Shuttleworth and Maik Taylor. I will continue to provide advice and counsel while undergoing treatment.

“The Club has been incredibly supportive of me and my family and we are very grateful. I know that everyone will be respectful of our privacy at this time.”