Latest Derby County news from Derbyshire Live as former Rams boss speaks out after being sacked by Blues following nightmare spell
Former Derby County manager Wayne Rooney has been fired by Birmingham City after just 15 games in charge. The ex-Manchester United star has paid the price for a dismal run of form at St Andrews in what was his first job back in England after leaving Derby in the summer of 2022.
Rooney oversaw just two wins during an ill-fated spell and leaves the club in 20th position after they were beaten 3-0 by Leeds United on New Year’s Day. Rooney had inherited a side that was in the top six under John Eustace, who was then controversially axed to make way for the former England striker.
Blues are now on the lookout for a successor with Steve Cooper, the former Nottingham Forest manager, one name in the frame. Jesse Marsch, the ex-Leeds boss, is currently the favourite. Speaking about his departure, Rooney said: “Football is a results business – and I recognise they have not been at the level I wanted them to be.
“However, time is the most precious commodity a manager requires and I do not believe 13 weeks was sufficient to oversee the changes that were needed.
“Personally, it will take me some time to get over this setback. I have been involved in professional football, as either a player or manager, since I was 16. Now, I plan to take some time with my family as I prepare for the next opportunity in my journey as a manager.”
Birmingham City chief executive, Garry Cook, added: “We are committed to doing what is necessary to bring success to St Andrew’s. Unfortunately, Wayne’s time with us did not go as planned and we have decided to move in a different direction. The search for a successor begins with immediate effect and we will update supporters when we have further news.”
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