Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has on Friday been named the coach of English Championship coach, Derby County.
The appointment brings an end to the beautiful playing career of the former England international as he takes up his first job in management.
Rooney had been managing the club on a temporary basis since Phillip Cocu was sacked in November 2020 but has now been given the job on a full-time basis.
During his time with United, the player won 16 trophies and scored 253 goals, in 559 appearances.
Confirming Rooney’s appointment as a full-time manager, Derby County in a statement on Friday disclosed the 35-year-old takes up the position on a two-and-half-year deal which will run until the summer of 2023.
Before taking the job on a full-time basis, Rooney oversaw nine matches in total, winning three of the games and securing four draws.
Derby County’s Chief Executive Officer Stephen Pearce said: “We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Wayne Rooney as our new manager.
“Our recent upturn in results under Wayne was married together with some positive performances, notably the 2-0 home win over Swansea City and the 4-0 victory at Birmingham City.
“During that nine-game run we also dramatically improved their defensive record and registered five clean sheets in the process, while in the attacking third we became more effective and ruthless too.
Those foundations have provided a platform for the club to build on in the second half of the season under Wayne’s guidance.”
Reacting to his appointment, Rooney said: “When I first arrived back in the United Kingdom I was completely blown away by the potential of Derby County Football Club. The Stadium, Training Ground, the quality of the playing staff and the young players coming through and of course the fan base that has remained loyal and supportive.
“Despite other offers I knew instinctively Derby County was the place for me.
“To be given the opportunity to follow the likes of Brian Clough, Jim Smith, Frank Lampard and Phillip Cocu is such an honour and I can promise everyone involved in the club and all our fans, my staff and I will leave no stone unturned in achieving the potential I have witnessed over the last 12 months of this historic football club.”
Rooney’s first game as Derby’s new permanent manager will be Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture at home to Rotherham United (3pm kick-off).
