BUYOUT IS CLOSE BUT ROONEY QUITS DERBY

WAYNE ROONEY has quit crisis-torn Derby, even though they are finally on the brink of exiting administration. England’s record goalscorer departed just three days before the Rams were due to report for pre-season training, with local property group Clowes Developments submitting a bid for the club last night after buying Pride Park from former owner Mel Morris. In permanent charge since January 2021, Rooney’s future was in huge doubt after US businessman Chris Kirchner failed to complete his proposed takeover. Defender Curtis Davies called it ‘another bombshell in the life of Derby County’ and backed Rooney’s No 2, Liam Rosenior, for the job. Rooney (pictured) informed administrators Quantuma of his decision last night and would not be swayed, even though he said they tried ‘tremendously hard’ to dissuade him. He added: ‘My time at the club has been a rollercoaster of emotions, both highs and lows, but I have enjoyed the challenge. ‘Personally, I feel the club now needs to be led by someone with fresh energy and not affected by the events that have happened over the last 18 months. I will remember my time at Derby with great pride and affection, and would like to thank all my staff, players and, of course, the fans for their incredible support. I will never forget you and hope to see you all again in the near future and in happier times. Finally, I am aware the club still have interested parties who wish to take over its running.’ Along with Clowes, a group led by ex-Rams chairman Andy Appleby has also submitted an offer, and former Newcastle owner Mike Ashley has been interested throughout. But Clowes now appear to be in pole position. One of the new owners’ first jobs will be to appoint a manager. When Kirchner was given preferred bidder status in April, Rooney’s future looked secure. But when Kirchner disappeared from the scene, it is thought Rooney was disappointed and it appeared only a matter of time before he left. A statement from Quantuma read: ‘The joint administrators are very disappointed Wayne has taken the difficult decision to leave and we have spent some time trying to persuade him to stay but understand his reasons for wanting to go.’ A Clowes representative added: ‘We thank Wayne Rooney for the time he served Derby County.’