Gary Rowett has been named Birmingham City caretaker manager.

Rowett steps in with manager Tony Mowbray absent due to an unnamed illness. He was removed as Millwall manager in October.

"Based on Tony's decision to take some additional time away, we agreed it is in the club's best interests to appoint Gary Rowett to lead the team forward from the touchline for the final eight games of the season. Gary is an experienced leader and has our full support," said co-owner and chairman Tom Wagner.

Former Blues player and manager Rowett returns for a third time at St Andrew's.

Birmingham have now had six managers in charge this season.