Bristol City head coach Liam Manning takes leave of absence after baby son dies

Bristol City's head coach Liam Manning is to take a leave of absence following the death of his baby son.

The football club said in a statement they were "deeply saddened by the passing of Liam's recently born son Theo John Manning".

They added: "We know that Bristol City's supporters and the wider football family will share their condolences and deepest sympathy with Liam, his wife Fran and his son Isaac during this difficult period."

The Championship side did not say how long the 39-year-old would be away for.

Manning's assistant Chris Hogg will take over on a temporary basis in his absence, the club added.

A string of other football clubs and players expressed sympathy and condolences following the announcement on Monday, including City's rivals Bristol Rovers.

"Everyone at Bristol Rovers sends our love and sincerest condolences to Liam and the Manning family at this horrendously sad time," the club said.

Read more from Sky News:
Spacecraft blasts off to Jupiter moon
Strictly contestant 'heartbroken' over 'hand incident'
Woman 'trampled to death by cows'

Manning was appointed head coach at Bristol City on a three-and-a-half-year deal in November last year.

He previously held roles at Oxford United, MK Dons, West Ham and New York City FC.

(c) Sky News 2024: Bristol City head coach Liam Manning takes leave of absence after baby son dies