Leeds United winger sends well-wishes to club boss as manager given leave of absence for health reasons

Mowbray has only recently succeeded Wayne Rooney at St. Andrew's Stadium but managed to turn the club's fortunes around somewhat, even defeating former employers Sunderland in their most recent outing.

On Monday, February 19 it was revealed Mowbray would spend approximately six-to-eight weeks away from his managerial duties after receiving results of a medical assessment.

“Following my recent LMA Health Assessment I have received a medical diagnosis that will require me to receive treatment," Mowbray said in a statement released by Birmingham. "Undergoing treatment will necessitate that I temporarily step away from the Technical Area as Manager of Birmingham City Football Club. 

"Until I return, my Assistant Manager, Mark Venus, will take temporary charge of the team, supported by coaches Ashley Cole, Pete Shuttleworth and Maik Taylor. I will continue to provide advice and counsel while undergoing treatment. 

“The Club has been incredibly supportive of me and my family and we are very grateful. I know that everyone will be respectful of our privacy at this time.”

Leeds winger Poveda, who is currently on loan at Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Wednesday posted on social media platform Instagram to wish his former boss all the best. The Colombian wrote: 'Get well soon boss', in light of Mowbray's diagnosis.

Poveda worked under the 61-year-old at Blackburn Rovers two seasons ago, playing ten times and scoring once during an injury-hit campaign on loan away from Elland Road. The winger's contract expires this summer and is expected to leave Leeds in June but remains on the club's books until then, whilst representing Wednesday.

Twenty-four-year-old Poveda has hit the ground running at Hillsborough, already registering one assist since joining on deadline day earlier this month. He has started three of the last four Championship games, including a 2-0 win over Mowbray's Birmingham.