(Football news) Wayne Rooney has resigned as Derby County’s manager, admitting that “the club needs fresh energy” after the club was relegated to League 1. Despite Derby County being in administration, Rooney has received plaudits for making a commendable effort in fighting for survival in the Championship. The club began their 2021/22 season with a 12 point deduction, without which they would have finished 18th, level on points with Bristol City on 55 points.
Speaking about his resignation, Rooney said “Over the course of the Summer I have been closely following developments regarding the ownership of Derby County. Today I met with the administrators to inform them of my decision that it was time for me to leave the club. In fairness to them, they tried tremendously hard to change my decision but my mind was made up. My time at the club has been a rollercoaster of emotions, both highs and lows, but I have to say that I have enjoyed the challenge.
“Personally, I feel the club now needs to be led by someone with fresh energy and not affected by the events that have happened over the last eighteen months. I will remember my time at Derby with great pride and affection and would like to thank all my staff, players and of course the fans for their incredible support. I will never forget you and hope to see you all again in the near future and in happier times. Finally, I am aware that the club still has interested parties who wish to take over the running of the club. To them I say this, Derby County is a great club with a great history and great fans. I wish you all the best and much success for the future."
In response to Rooney’s resignation, Derby County administrators expressed their disappointment in the 36 year old’s departure. They said “The joint administrators are very disappointed that Wayne has taken the difficult decision to leave the club and we have spent some time today trying to persuade him to stay but understand his reasons for wanting to go. We are extremely grateful to him for his excellent work in the face of challenging on-field circumstances in the 2021/22 season and admire the manner in which he has led the team, the club and the local community through various off-field issues.
"The joint administrators recognise that staff and supporters will be frustrated and equally disappointed by this news, but we all wish him, his wife Coleen and their four boys every success in the future and we are sure they will always be welcomed back. All parties recognise the need to conclude a sale of the business and assets of the Club, as a matter of urgency and the joint administrators wish to reconfirm that Wayne's departure will not affect those ongoing, positive discussions."
Also read: Manchester City agree deal to sign Kalvin Phillips from Leeds United
