In a statement released by Huddersfield Town, it has been confirmed that head coach Liam Manning has been granted compassionate leave for the remainder of the season following personal issues for the 40 year old former Norwich City man.
The compassionate leave follows issues surrounding the loss of Manning’s baby son Theo, who sadly passed away in October 2024. Manning was at Bristol City at the time of Theo’s passing and subsequently received time away from his role at Bristol City.
As confirmed by the club, Manning is set to return in the summer. For the remainder of the season, Martin Drury and Jon Stead will take Mannings role.
Manning became head coach of Huddersfield Town in January, following the sacking of Lee Grant. Prior to the beginning of his compassionate leave, Manning oversaw 13 games at Huddersfield, winning 5.
Manning’s Bristol City side finished in the play offs in 24/25, before Sheffield United beat them in the semi finals. Norwich City appointed Manning in the summer of 2025 however, his reign was short lived, ending in November 2025.
Martin Drury, is a former colleague of a renowned former Huddersfield manager Carlos Corberan. Drury worked with Corberan at West Bromwich Albion and Valencia being assistant Coach at both. Corberan led Huddersfield to the Championship play off final in the 21/22 season
Drury is joined by Jon Stead. Who is a former Huddersfield striker. Stead played for Huddersfield on two separate occasions, 2002-2004 and 2013-2015. Over these 2 periods Stead played a total of 100 times, scoring 27 in these stints.
Drury and Stead will look to guide Huddersfield back into the play off spots. With the aim of making Huddersfield a Championship club for Manning’s return.
The staff and players at the Terriers will be hoping to revive their form following the international break after winning just one of their last four matches.
