Rooney’s looking set for dual role against Holden’s Robins
WAYNE Rooney has joined the coaching team at Derby County ahead of facing Bristol City next weekend.
Following the Rams sacking Phillip Cocu on Saturday evening, Rooney has been promoted to a four-man coaching team to take charge in BS3 as the club looks for a successor to the former PSV and Barcelona central midfielder.
Rooney confirmed the news himself in a statement released to the PA News Agency on Saturday evening and marks his first steps into the coaching world, as he lines alongside former Robin Liam Rosenior, as well as academy coach Justin Walker and goalkeeper coach Shay Given.
The former Manchester United and England captain could be playing against Bristol City as well as having a role in the dugout, as the Robins look to make it three Championship wins in a row.
England’s all-time leading goalscorer may prefer to stay on the sidelines for next Saturday’s game instead, and it remains to be seen exactly how involved the 120 cap international is at the weekend.
“I am sorry that Phillip and his staff have left the club and want to thank him personally for all his help and encouragement as part of his coaching staff,” he said.
“The most important thing now is to stabilise the club and start moving up the table.
“I have been asked to be part of the coaching staff to help the team’s preparations for next Saturday’s vital match against Bristol City.
“The coaches and I will speak with the players on Monday,” he added.
Derby County are bottom of the
English second tier and are looking for a result against the West Country men who sit in a promising fifth place in the table.
Assisting will also be Liam Rosenior who played 23 league games across 2002-03 for City after coming through the youth ranks as a promising midfielder.
The son of former City striker and long-time Bristol Post columnist Leroy Rosenior will be looking for a happy return to a former club, and Derby do have a decent record in the South West, winning three of their last six visits.
Chris Martin was on the scoresheet in last season’s game - and the former Rams man will hope to be again on Saturday. However, it will be for the Robins this time around.