'Truly overwhelmed' - Bristol City boss Liam Manning breaks silence after baby son's tragic death

Bristol City boss Liam Manning says he has been “truly overwhelmed” by the outpouring of support for him and his family after his son Theo died.

shortly after being born earlier this month, with Manning taking a leave of absence from his job at Bristol City to mourn the loss with his wife Fran and son Isaac. The 39-year-old, who has been in charge of the club since November 2023, has handed over the reins to his assistant Chris Hogg.

Hogg’s side beat Middlesbrough 2-0 and drew 2-2 with Stoke since Manning made the news public on October 14. Manning is not yet ready to return to work, but will be at Ashton Gate for Saturday’s 12.30pm kick-off against Leeds in the Championship.

Ahead of what promises to be an emotional return, Manning paid tribute to Hogg, Bristol City’s owners, technical director Brian Tinnion and the wider staff at the club. “In what has been the most difficult time of mine and my family's life, it has been truly overwhelming the support we have received from the Bristol City supporters and the wider football family,” he said in a statement.

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“From the England Under-21s game at Ashton Gate, to the game at Middlesbrough, we have been truly touched by the response and feel proud to have been able to share Theo's name. The Lansdowns, Brian Tinnion, Chris Hogg and the staff and players have been incredible and I am fortunate to work with such great people.

“Finally, life is extremely precious – enjoy the good times, stick together in the tough times, but most importantly make the most of the time that we have. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I look forward to seeing you at the game tomorrow.”

England under-21s wore black armbands during their win against Azerbaijan in Bristol last week, while a minute's applause was held before kick-off at the Riverside Stadium for City’s 2-0 win over Boro. City’s players then held up a banner reading “Fly High Theo” in dedication to their manager’s son.

Speaking to Radio Bristol after the win, Hogg said: "It was always going to be a case of riding the early emotions of the tribute which I thought was beautiful for little Theo. I'm so proud of the players and thank them for this week and how they've been as human beings.

“I know the gaffer would have been watching even though I told him not to, but I hope it put a smile on his face, even for a few seconds. Me and Liam just want to make this the best club it can be and make it a team the city can be proud of."

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