There has been an outpouring of support for former Ipswich Town academy player and coach Liam Manning following the death of his baby son.

Bristol City confirmed on Tuesday the 39-year-old will take a period of absence as manager due to the passing of his son Theo.

The Championship football club said they are "deeply saddened" and offered their sympathies for the family's loss.

Manning, was a part of the academy between 2002 and 2004 became head coach of Bristol City in 2023.

A statement from the Robins' club social media reads: "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.”

Ipswich Town sent a message of condolence to the manger's family on X.

The club said: "Everyone at Ipswich Town sends their love to Liam and the Manning family. We're thinking of you all."

After being released from Town's academy in 2005, Manning had spells at non-league clubs Long Melford, Leiston, Woodbridge, Melton St Audrey before finishing his career at Ipswich Wanderers. 

After his playing career, Manning concentrated on coaching and worked as an academy coach at Town, tutoring the likes of Connor Wickham, Luke Woolfenden, Flynn Downes and Andre Dozzell before making the move to West Ham at the end of 2015.

Bristol City said all football duties will be carried out by his assistant Chris Hogg in the interim.