EFL pundit David Prutton told the EFL podcast how Derby County would be missing a trick if they didn’t appoint Wayne Rooney as their new manager.
The Rams are on the lookout for a new manager after Phillip Cocu’s exit.
Derby currently sit bottom of the Championship table having recorded just one win in 11 league games while only managing to find the net on five occasions.
Many supporters feel an experienced manager is needed at this time.
But with Rooney already on the books as a player-coach following his move last January, former Nottingham Forest man Prutton feels the Rams should hand him the top job.
Wayne Rooney is England’s record goal scorer. Manchester United’s record goal scorer. One of the most recognisable football faces on the planet, Derby would be missing a trick from a PR point of view if they didn’t steam in. After that, they have to prove themselves on the grass and show he has got the talent, ability and strength of character to be able to lead a football team from the side-lines as a manager. But if he’s got aspirations to be a manager he has to start somewhere and this as it sits right now looks to be a very opportune moment for that.
It is well-documented how Rooney has ambitions to become a manager.
According to a recent report in the Daily Mail, the 35-year-old has already identified his coaching staff should he get the role with former Ram John Gregory linked.
Jamie Carragher, meanwhile, told Talksport how he was convinced Rooney would become Derby’s next manager – all this while Cocu was still in the job.
There is no doubt there is a media bias pushing for Rooney to get the Derby job.
The Rams enjoyed a successful campaign under Frank Lampard in 2018-19, reaching the playoff final while the former England midfielder’s presence boosted the club’s profile.
Rooney could have a similar impact as Derby manager. However, it would represent a big gamble to appoint the former United man considering the team’s struggles so far this term.
Also see: Report: Derby players back idea to appoint former England international as new manager
Also see: Three players out of Derby academy appear on FM21 best wonderkids, including £10m ace