Stoke City appoint ex-Coventry boss Mark Robins as new manager
The Football Association of Wales has confirmed that Rowley will continue in his role as Craig Bellamy’s assistant in the Wales national team.
And Walters added: “Welcoming two assistant managers of the caliber of Paul and James and with such an innovative and progressive mindset is another important part of how we want to grow and develop.”
Robins led the Sky Blues to promotion from League Two and League One and reached the Championship play-off final in 2023, before losing to Luton on penalties.
They failed to finish in the top six the previous season, but took Manchester United to a penalty shootout in the FA Cup semi-final, where Robins began his playing career.
He has also had charge of Rotherham, Barnsley, Scunthorpe and Huddersfield.
Stoke started the season under Steven Schumacher but he was sacked in August and former Huddersfield and Norwich coach Pelac was appointed.
However, they won only three of their 19 matches and the 36-year-old was sacked on 27 December after a 2–0 home reverse by Leeds, extending their winless streak to nine matches and relegation to the Championship. He finished 18th.
Robins is now the club’s seventh managerial appointment since his 10-year tenure in the Premier League ended in May 2018.
Since being demoted they have yet to finish in the top six of the championship.
Stoke chairman John Coates said, “With Mark’s proven track record for this role, I believe this is a really exciting moment for Stoke City.”
“The recent win over Sunderland, the way the team competed on the field and engaged with the fans, was a huge encouragement to everyone and gave a glimpse of what can be created at our club.”
