Rob Edwards Stands Down Amid Wolves Interest

Rob Edwards, a former player, coach, and interim manager for Wolverhampton Wanderers, has been stood down from his responsibilities for the upcoming match against Birmingham City. This decision comes amidst Wolverhampton’s interest in appointing him as their new manager.

On Thursday, Wolverhampton made an approach to speak with Edwards, which was subsequently rejected by Middlesbrough. However, discussions continued, and on Friday, Edwards was engaged in conversations with the club’s hierarchy.

Due to this situation, Edwards did not conduct his regular pre-game press conference and was absent from overseeing the team’s final training session prior to the match against Birmingham.

It has now been confirmed that he will not be in charge for the home game against the Blues. Edwards signed a three-year contract in June to succeed Michael Carrick as Middlesbrough’s manager, and the team is currently positioned third in the Championship standings.

Sources indicate that Edwards was prepared to fulfill his duties; however, Middlesbrough’s management decided to take control of the training session and press conference, as well as the match itself. It appears that Middlesbrough is displeased with Wolves’ overtures and Edwards’ apparent willingness to consider the managerial role at Wolves.

Edwards views the opportunity at Wolves as a dream position, having made over 100 appearances for the club between 2004 and 2008. He grew up in nearby Telford, where he still has family, though logistics regarding a potential move are not believed to be a significant concern.

Wolves parted ways with Vitor Pereira on Sunday following a winless start to the season, which has left them four points adrift at the bottom of the Premier League. Following Pereira’s dismissal, it was reported that Edwards was among the top candidates for the managerial position, alongside former manager Gary O’Neil.

While Wolves held discussions with O’Neil, he withdrew from consideration, allowing Edwards to emerge as the preferred choice. After retiring from professional play in 2013, Edwards transitioned into coaching at Wolves and briefly served as interim manager in 2016 after Walter Zenga’s dismissal.

His early coaching career included roles at non-league Telford and with the England Under-16 team. In 2021, he became the head coach of Forest Green Rovers before moving to Watford the following year, although he was sacked after only 11 matches.

In November 2022, Edwards took over as Luton Town’s manager, leading the club to the Premier League for the first time in his first season in charge. However, after Luton was relegated in May 2024, Edwards departed during the 2024-25 season, with the club subsequently falling to the third tier.