JUST IN: Wayne Rooney retires from football to become Derby’s permanent coach

Derby County have confirmed Manchester United legend, Wayne Rooney as the club’s permanent coach, replacing sacked Phillip Cocu.

Recall that Rooney became the interim coach in November 2020 following the sack of the Netherlands manager after a run of poor form.

Rooney who has now officially retired from football will handle the affairs at The Rams as their permanent gaffer on a two-and-a-half-year contract which will run until the summer of 2023.

“We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Wayne Rooney as our new manager,” says the Championship club’s Chief Executive Officer Stephen Pearce

Rooney’s appointment came after his interim stint, leading The Rams to three victories and four draws in nine matches, including the 2-0 home win over Swansea City and the 4-0 victory at Birmingham City. between the end of November and early January.

Pearce admits that he git the job as a result of the “positive performances” which also saw Derby “dramatically improved their defensive record and registered five clean sheets in the process, while in the attacking third we became more effective and ruthless too.”

“Those foundations have provided a platform for the club to build on in the second half of the season under Wayne’s guidance,” Pearce added.

Rooney said: “When I first arrived back in the United Kingdom I was completely blown away by the potential of Derby County Football Club. The Stadium, Training Ground, the quality of the playing staff and the young players coming through and of course the fan base that has remained loyal and supportive.

“Despite other offers I knew instinctively Derby County was the place for me.

“To be given the opportunity to follow the likes of Brian Clough, Jim Smith, Frank Lampard and Phillip Cocu is such an honour and I can promise everyone involved in the club and all our fans, my staff and I will leave no stone unturned in achieving the potential I have witnessed over the last 12 months of this historic football club.”

Rooney who began his career at boyhood club, Everton, retires as Manchester United and England’s all-time leading goal scorer.

He scored 253 goals in 559 appearances for Manchester United and won five Premier League titles, along with one Champions League and one Europa League crown during his time at Old Trafford.