Chesterfield's former manager James Rowe is facing a delayed trial for sexual assault, with the case now scheduled to take place in October 2025. Rowe, who has denied the allegations, was set to stand trial at Derby Crown Court but the case was postponed due to a series of issues, including a prosecutor falling ill and a juror being dismissed due to language difficulties. The delay has been criticized by Rowe's lawyer, Peter Eguae, who described the wait as 'appalling'. Rowe, 40, is accused of groping a woman during a private massage in November 2021 and is facing a single charge of sexual assault. He was temporarily suspended from his role at Chesterfield in January 2022 and later left the club by 'mutual consent'. The case has been plagued by problems, including a cyber attack on the prosecutor's chambers and a breakdown in the court's heating system. Judge Jonathan Bennett expressed sympathy for Rowe, stating that 'life was on hold' for both him and the complainant. Rowe's trial is now set to take place in October 2025, nearly two years after he was charged. The delay is a result of a shortage of judges, courtrooms, and prosecutors, with many cases being delayed until 2025. Rowe's lawyer has reluctantly accepted the new trial date, but has expressed concern over the impact of the delay on his client's life and career. The case is a significant one for Chesterfield, with the club's former manager facing serious allegations. The delay has sparked criticism over the efficiency of the justice system and the impact on those involved in the case. Chesterfield's fans will be watching the case closely, as the club's reputation and former manager are under scrutiny. The trial is set to take place in October 2025, and it remains to be seen how the case will unfold.