After an impressive record as an interim boss that has seen him won three matches and record four draws from nine games since taking over as player-manager following Phillip Cocu’s sacking in November, Wayne Rooney has been appointed as Derby County Coach on a two-and-a-half-year contract.
This appointment means Rooney officially retires from playing football after 19-years of an impressive achievement career on the pitch.
The former Manchester United striker joined Derby as a player-coach last year January after a brief spell in the MLS with DC United. He made 35 appearances for the club and scored seven goals.
CEO of Derby 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 our 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.”
After the 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 in 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 began his career at Everton before moving to Manchester United where he scored 253 goals in 559 appearances, won five Premier League titles, along with one Champions League and one Europa League crown during his time at Old Trafford.
He scored 53 goals in 120 appearances for his country, England.
