RAMS PLOT A ROO-TE TO THE PREMIER

WAYNE ROONEY has a vision of steering Derby County back to the Premier League.

The Rams may be on their way into League One after a crippling season on and off the field.

But Rooney (above) says that, if American businessman Chris Kirchner’s takeover bid is completed, then ‘exciting’ plans are in place – and the pair want Derby back in the top flight.

The only thing holding up plans to rebuild a team docked 21 points after going into administration is the sale of the Pride Park stadium, which is still owned by former chairman Mel Morris.

Talks were ongoing over the weekend with the city council, which has shown an interest in taking the ground on.

Rooney says, if that hurdle can be overcome, then Kirchner’s plans will have lift-off.

When asked what sort of timescale Rooney and Kirchner are aiming for, the Rams boss said: “We want to get into the Premier League so it’s at least two years! Chris and his team are ready. I’m excited, Chris is excited. It’s just one last issue to resolve.“

Rooney revealed he and Kirchner were in meetings until 2.30am ahead of the game.

More talks followed over the weekend in a bid to get the stadium issue sorted.

But Rooney admits that, if things do not go well, then it is difficult to see who would take Kirchner’s place. He said: “Chris is the only one to have shown any real intent of buying in the club.”

The former England striker said the support of 30,000 fans will have been noted by council officials who were at Saturday’s game. He added: “They will have seen the pride of the fans. This club has brought the city together.”

Cardiff sealed the game with a second-half goal from loan striker Jordan Hugill in his final game before heading back to Norwich.

Boss Steve Morison said: “The lads showed how much a win meant – at the death Dillon

Phillips made a save and everyone went to congratulate him.”