BRISTOL CITY have announced that head coach Liam Manning will take a period of absence following the death of his baby son Theo.

City have not put a timescale on the 38-year-old’s absence and said football duties will be carried out by his assistant Chris Hogg in the interim.

City said in a statement: “Everyone at Bristol City Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Liam’s recently born son Theo John Manning.

“We know that Bristol City’s supporters and the wider football family will share their condolences and deepest sympathy with Liam, his wife Fran and his son Isaac during this difficult period.

“Liam will take a period of absence, and all football duties will be carried out by Chris Hogg.

“We ask that the privacy of Liam and his family is respected during this time.”