Former Chesterfield manager James Rowe charged with sexual assault

James Rowe, the former Chesterfield manager and West Ham United youth team coach, has been charged with sexual assault.

The 39-year-old, who left the National League club by mutual consent in February following the emergence of unspecified allegations against him, stands accused of having attacked a woman in November.

A month later, he joined National League North AFC Fylde, where he remains manager.

Derbyshire Police said: “In January this year, officers received a report of a man having sexually assaulted a woman in Chesterfield, with the offence alleged to have taken place in November 2021.

“James Rowe, 39, of Breaston, in Derby, has now been charged and is due to appear before magistrates at Chesterfield Justice Centre on Monday 7 November.”

Rowe could not be immediately reached for comment but Telegraph Sport has been told he has previously denied the allegations against him.

Chesterfield were lying in second place in the National League and had reached the third round of the FA Cup – losing at Chelsea – when he left the club.

“Chesterfield Football Club and James Rowe have today come to an agreement that his position as manager will terminate with immediate effect by mutual consent,” they said on February 4.

“The club would like to thank James for his achievements during his tenure and wishes him well for the future.”

Rowe, who joined Chesterfield from Gloucester City in November 2020, had been suspended the previous month when the allegations against him first surfaced.

“Chesterfield FC can confirm that James Rowe has been suspended pending an investigation into allegations of misconduct,” the club said.

“Danny Webb will take charge of the team.

“As the matter is subject to an investigation, the club is unable to make further comment until that investigation is complete.”

Rowe was ultimately replaced by Paul Cook, who returned to Chesterfield for a second spell in charge.

They finished seventh last season but currently lead the division.