Rooney Appointed Derby County Interim Manager: Will His Success Inspire The Rams?
By: Absalom Mulama
Posted on Monday, November 16, 2020
Legendary ex-Manchester United forward, Wayne Rooney was on 15th November named the interim manager of English Championship League Club Derby County, after exit of Phillip Cocu. Rooney has been a player-coach since he joined the club from MLS side D.C. United in January 2019.
The 35-year-old ended his lucrative contract at D.C. United with two years remaining, to go back to England. He was one of the best paid best paid players in the MLS club.
The ex-Manchester United star released a statement saying: "I am sorry that Phillip and his staff have left the club. I want to thank him personally for all his help and encouragement as part of his coaching staff.
“The most important thing now is to stabilise the club and start moving up the table.”
“I've been asked to be part of the coaching staff to help the team's preparation for next Saturday's vital match against Bristol City.”
The England record goal scorer now has a challenge in his hands, to help the club overcome their terrible run. Derby County sit at the last place in the Championship league with only one win in their last 11 matches. They have had seven losses and are at risk of relegation, leading to the release of their Dutch coach Phillip Cocu.
The Rams have trusted Rooney with the task of saving their season. He manages his first game this weekend against 5th placed Bristol City, where he will be looking for a second win this season. The Rams come into this game having lost their last two games while Bristol City have won theirs.
Launching his career on 8 losses in 12 games would not look good on Rooney’s newly launched assistant managerial CV. Although, Derby County have a chance to win due to Bristol’s poor home performance at home.
Bristol have won only two of their five home games. Maybe Rooney’s record breaking career with Everton, Manchester United and England’s squad can inspire his team to a win.
