Exclusive: Huddersfield close to agreeing Liam Manning deal, likely first game named
Huddersfield Town are closing in on the appointment of Liam Manning as their new manager and he could be appointed as soon as Tuesday, sources have told Football Insider.
Football Insider revealed on Sunday that Manning had emerged as the favourite to replace Lee Grant at Huddersfield, with that move now advancing.
The Terriers will play Bradford City on Saturday, and could have their new manager in the dugout at the Accu Stadium.
Steven Gerrard and Russell Martin were in the running to take over Huddersfield, but an appointment now appears close.
Manning was sacked by Norwich City in November, after a seventh consecutive defeat at Carrow Road.
Liam Manning looking to save reputation
Manning was appointed by Norwich in July 2025, after positive stints at Bristol City and Oxford United.
But the manager’s reputation has been left in tatters by his time at Carrow Road, which began and ended dismally.
The 40-year-old would guide his team to just two Championship wins from 15 games in charge, with both of those coming before September.
| Liam Manning | Norwich City |
| Wins | 3 |
| Draws | 3 |
| Losses | 11 |
| Scored | 16 |
| Conceded | 27 |
The Canaries would go 11 consecutive games without victory in the months following, until decision-makers eventually drew a line.
Manning will now look to restore his reputation with a return to League One, where he enjoyed success with Oxford and MK Dons.
Huddersfield are in a positive position in the third tier, sitting inside the play-off spots but retaining a perilous proximity to the clubs below.
Only seven points separate the Terriers from 16th in League One, and Manning, if he is appointed, will be keen to stabilise a team without a win in their last four league matches.
What Manning said after leaving Norwich
Manning spoke about his time at Norwich following his departure in November, thanking the fans for their support.
The 40-year-old was born in Norwich, and was keen to express his pride at having managed the Canaries.
“I look back on being appointed head coach of my hometown club with great pride,” he said. “Unfortunately, we were unable to achieve the results or fulfil the plans we set out when we took over in June.
“Although my time with the fans was brief, I want to acknowledge their outstanding support during a challenging period.
“They continued to show up in great numbers – unsurprising given their passion and loyalty – and displayed incredible spirit despite understandable frustrations.”
Norwich have since hired former Rangers manager Phillipe Clement, who has won six of his 13 games in charge so far.