Breaking News: Ex-Man City coach interested in Preston North End manager’s job as front runner status emerges

Interim PNE manager Mike Marsh has departed following Ryan Lowe’s exit on Monday.

Brian Barry-Murphy, a former Manchester City coach, is reportedly interested in taking over as Preston North End’s next manager, according to the Lancashire Post. Over the weekend, Barry-Murphy became the bookmakers’ favorite for the role, with his odds dropping from 12/1 to even money. It’s believed he has applied for the position. Currently out of work, Barry-Murphy had previously managed City’s Elite Development Squad but left the role after three years, feeling he had taken the team as far as possible and seeking a new challenge this summer. During his time at City, he led the squad to successive Premier League 2 titles, building on the success of Enzo Maresca’s double-winning side.

Barry-Murphy, originally from Cork, has been linked with various managerial roles in the English Football League over the years. He played for Preston North End from 1999 to 2003, later moving on to Sheffield Wednesday, Bury, and Rochdale. He eventually managed Rochdale, initially as caretaker in March 2019 before being appointed full-time in April. Under his management, Rochdale finished 18th in League One during the 2019/20 season but were relegated the following season, leading to Barry-Murphy’s resignation.

On Tuesday, Barry-Murphy was rumored to be one of six candidates on PNE’s shortlist, but the Lancashire Post later clarified that the process had not yet reached that stage. Director Peter Ridsdale provided an update on Wednesday, noting that they were narrowing down a list of over 65 candidates.

After PNE’s 3-0 defeat to Swansea City on Saturday, it was confirmed that interim boss Mike Marsh had left, as he did not attend the post-match press conference. This was Marsh’s second game in charge, following a midweek win over Sunderland. The club’s statement concluded by saying they will now focus all their efforts on appointing a new manager or head coach, with an announcement expected in the coming days.

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