Rooney in frame to be boss at DC United

WAYNE ROONEY is wanted by his former club DC United to become their new head coach. The 36-year-old’s stock as a manager is high following the impressive job he carried out under financial constraints at Derby County and he is open to a return to the States to further his career.

DC United sacked head coach Hernan Losada in April and placed Chad Ashton in interim charge. They are 13th (out of 14) in the MLS Eastern Conference after nine defeats from 16 games and need a fresh impetus. The 54-year-old Ashton knows Rooney well as he was working as an assistant coach for DC when England’s record goalscorer played for them between 2018 and 2020. Rooney scored 25 goals in 52 games for them and energised the Washington franchise, though his family did struggle to settle. A spokesman for Rooney said: ‘A number of discussions have taken place with clubs — both at home and abroad — interested in the possibility of Wayne becoming their manager. ‘Wayne remains interested in projects that excite him while continuing to develop his skills and knowledge as a manager. ‘At this stage, no decision or agreement has been made with any club.’

Rooney has spoken openly about his ambition to continue coaching here with his ultimate goal to manage Manchester United, but a spell back in America would add another string to his bow as he looks to make himself a more accomplished coach.

He was previously asked to interview for the manager’s job at Everton and will not be short of offers when they arise after the manner in which he handled himself and his players during Derby’s battle to survive last season in the Championship. This came despite the obstacles and points penalties that were thrown at them.