According to the Daily Mail, the Derby County players have given their backing to Wayne Rooney to be appointed new manager of the club following Phillip Cocu’s exit.
The former England international striker joined the Rams in January.
Rooney penned an 18-month contract with the idea of going into coaching. However, the team’s struggles this season have prompted talk of a change in role.
A report by the Daily Mail last month claimed Rooney had already decided on his coaching staff – all this while Cocu was still in charge and looking to turn things around.
Jamie Carragher, meanwhile, told Talksport how he has no doubts his former England teammate will become Derbys’ next manager, claiming that was the plan all along.
Now, the Daily Mail say Rooney has the backing of the Derby players.
But the former Manchester United man doesn’t yet have his badges. Moreover, prospective new owner Sheikh Khaled may have his own manager in mind.
Much may depend on the impending takeover while both Rooney and Liam Rosenior will have somewhat of an audition in the upcoming fixture at Bristol City.
Rooney no doubt gathered vital experience over his career while also playing under renowned world class managers such as Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho.
But playing and managing are two entirely different prospects.
Derby currently sit at the bottom of the Championship table. Many supporters may fear giving a rookie manager the job at this stage could end up with disastrous consequences.
Also see: Three players out of Derby academy appear on FM21 best wonderkids, including £10m ace
Also see: Three Derby players who may immediately benefit from Cocu exit, including £3.5m ace