Rotherham United’s recent decision to dismiss manager Matt Taylor comes as the team languishes in 22nd place in the Championship. Taylor, who had successfully kept Rotherham in the Championship in the previous season, a feat his predecessor Paul Warne did not achieve, now exits following a significant downturn in the club’s fortunes.
The team’s recent 5-0 loss at Watford, marking Taylor’s last game in charge, left them precariously situated four points from the safety zone. Taylor, who joined Rotherham from Exeter City 13 months ago, had an initial success by securing the club’s Championship status last season. However, this season’s performance has been dismal, with only two victories in 16 league matches. Taylor’s departure makes him the seventh Championship manager to leave his post this campaign.
Rotherham’s chairman, Tony Stewart, has announced that the hunt for a new manager is already in progress. The team’s next fixture is a home game against Leeds United on November 24. Stewart expressed in a statement that this change was essential to enhance the club’s chances of remaining in the Championship.
A Tough Legacy to Uphold
Taylor’s tenure at Rotherham was always going to be challenging, especially following his successful stint at Exeter where he led them to promotion from League Two in the 2021-22 season. He inherited the managerial reins at Rotherham when they were 11th in the table, succeeding Paul Warne in October of the previous year.
Under Taylor’s guidance, Rotherham clinched their Championship status in a critical win against Middlesbrough in the season’s second-to-last game, finishing 19th and avoiding the relegation zone by six points. This achievement broke their pattern of alternating between promotion and relegation over six seasons.
Notable achievements included a surprise 1-0 victory against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. However, the team’s away performance has been lackluster since then, with their most recent defeat at Vicarage Road highlighting their struggles.
Reflecting on his final game, Taylor voiced concerns over the team’s lack of belief, a sentiment that underscores the challenges faced by the club.
Commentary from BBC Radio Sheffield’s Andy Giddings
BBC Radio Sheffield’s Andy Giddings notes the perennial challenge for Rotherham United: maintaining their status in the Championship. With their hopes dwindling, Taylor’s departure, though tough, seemed both inevitable and necessary. The club’s poor away performance, a long-standing issue, has been particularly pronounced this season.
The focus now turns to Stewart’s choice for Taylor’s successor. Whether an emerging talent or an experienced leader, the new manager will confront a daunting task in steering Rotherham United through the remainder of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rotherham United Sacking
Why was Matt Taylor sacked as Rotherham United’s manager?
Matt Taylor was dismissed from his role as manager of Rotherham United due to the team’s poor performance in the Championship. Under his leadership, the club found itself in 22nd place, with only two wins in 16 league games, and a recent 5-0 defeat against Watford.
What was Matt Taylor’s track record before his sacking?
Before his sacking, Matt Taylor had successfully kept Rotherham in the Championship last season. He joined the club from Exeter City and initially improved their fortunes, but the team’s performance drastically declined in the current season.
Who will replace Matt Taylor at Rotherham United?
As of now, Rotherham United has not announced a replacement for Matt Taylor. The club’s chairman, Tony Stewart, stated that the search for a new manager is underway, with the team’s next match scheduled against Leeds United on November 24.
How did Rotherham United perform under Matt Taylor’s management?
Under Matt Taylor, Rotherham United had a mixed performance. While he managed to keep the team in the Championship last season, this season has been challenging, with the team winning only two out of 16 league games and suffering significant defeats, including a 5-0 loss at Watford.
More about Rotherham United Sacking
- Rotherham United Official Statement
- BBC Sport: Rotherham United Manager Sacked
- Sky Sports: Championship Team News
- The Guardian: Football Managerial Changes
- ESPN FC: Championship Standings and Analysis
4 comments
This is harsh but thats football for you. One season you’re up, next you’re down. Best of luck to Taylor in the future.
Its always tough to see a manager go, but with Rotherham sitting at 22nd, something had to change. Wonder who they’ll bring in next.
honestly, our away form has been terrible. not surprising Taylor got the sack. Still, feel bad for the guy.
wow, didnt see that coming! Matt Taylor really seemed like he had it under control last season, guess this season’s results just werent good enough.