Derby return could be up to Mengi’s choice
WAYNE Rooney has dropped a big hint there is an agreement in place with Manchester United for Teden Mengi to stay on loan with Derby County next season.
The 18-year-old defender joined the Rams on deadline day at the end of the January transfer window.
Mengi’s seven appearances have included five starts and Rooney has said previously he would like the player to return next season.
The youngster was an unused substitute in Friday’s 2-0 home victory over Luton Town, having started and impressed in the previous fixture away to Stoke City.
Rooney said Mengi was “very unfortunate” to be left out of the 11.
“He has been excellent in the games he has played,” Rooney added.
“What I wanted from today (against Luton) was to go back to the back four and goalkeeper who have got us a lot of clean sheets from me coming into this job.
“Of course it was very harsh on Teden and very harsh on Kelle Roos (who was replaced in goal by David Marshall) but they are decisions I get
paid to make and decisions I felt were the right ones.
“Teden can play in a back three or a back four, I have no problem with playing him in either of those formations.
“He is young and I think this experience is great for him – playing, being on the bench, being around the first team, it’s a lot of pressure which he has handled really well.
“Teden will play more games for us, he is a player I am hoping to keep here for next season.
“He has gone from playing under23 football to playing competitive football where there is a lot at stake.
“He is getting a good amount of minutes but it is important I protect him as well.”
Asked if he has spoken to Manchester United about Mengi and next season, Rooney said: “Yes. It is on the player, really.
“I want to make sure we finish the season strong and then it is a decision for Teden to make. Of course he has to see what Manchester United’s feelings are on him and what his feelings are.
“I feel he has improved a lot and he has shown he can play at this level. Whether he is happy to go back and sit on the bench and play Carabao Cup games or whether he wants to further his experience and play in a very tough league, it is down to Teden.”