Warnock believes Derby will just fine

NEIL Warnock believes Derby County have a good enough squad to climb out of trouble.

The Rams are bottom of the Championship going into tonight’s clash with Warnock’s Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium.

Asked about Wayne Rooney’s new role, as part of a four-man coaching team in temporary charge of the Rams, Warnock told TeessideLive: “When you’ve got Wayne’s experience, it’s natural, I think, to try and use that to your advantage.

“It is a lot different managing a club than it is to playing. When you have to make the decisions yourself it becomes more difficult.

“But at the moment where he’s only caretaker I don’t think he’ll have that. I think they’ll just be enjoying it, without any risk really. It’s a group of young men who are just setting off and I imagine they’re excited.

“I don’t think he’ll need any advice from me really. I’m sure he’ll have plenty of other people he can call upon if he needs it.

“It’s a good job for whoever takes it really – whether that’s Wayne, or whoever.

“It’s a difficult league but they’ve got such a good squad and they haven’t got to get too many wins to be mid-table at this time of the season.

“I’d expect them to be more than comfortable when the season ends.”

Warnock says in the longterm Rooney will have to make a decision on his playing career as he looks to move into management.

“It will be difficult for him long term, because I don’t think you can play and manage in the Championship at the same time,” said Warnock.

“You might get away with it lower down but not at Championship level. Short term, I think he can. This season, I think he could do it.

“But I think if he wants to go into it properly that would be different. Wayne has played right at the very top. He’s been one of our greatest players – I’ve loved watching him – and when you see someone like that, I think they will know when it’s time.

“I’d imagine he is ready now anyhow, to settle down and give management a go.”