Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has been appointed Birmingham City manager following the sacking of John Eustace.
The 37-year-old left MLS side DC United over the weekend and they failed to reach the play-offs, but Rooney has quickly found employment back home in the UK.
Rooney, who was always tipped to return to England at some point, has signed a three-and-a-half year deal to become the new manager at Birmingham.
Along with Rooney, Birmingham have welcomed Ashley Cole and John O’Shea to the coaching staff. Both will retain their coaching roles with their respective national sides.
Speaking about his new job, Rooney told Birmingham City club media: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City Football Club at such an exciting time. It is very clear that they have a plan and are committed to realising their ambition for the club. We are fully aligned on what is expected. I have been building my managerial career, putting myself in challenging environments, to get me ready for this opportunity. It’s a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can’t wait to get started.
“We have some exciting young players in the squad, and some who are still to break through into the First Team, alongside a core of experienced senior professionals. I have a clear way that I want the team to play, and my coaching staff and I will work hard to implement it. We will create a winning culture here with an identity that gets Blues fans on their feet.
“I’ve played at St. Andrew’s and Birmingham City fans were always loud and passionate about their team. It was a really difficult place to come as an opponent and now I get to experience what it is like to have them behind us. My job is to elevate the Club to the next level and I can’t wait to get started. I know what the expectations are and our job is to deliver.”
His first game in charge of the Championship side will come after the international break against Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough. The two former United teammates will face off in what will be a remarkable occasion.
Rooney has already earned plaudits as a Championship manager from his time at Derby, which was an incredibly difficult job, so he will know what to expect as Birmingham look to push for promotion to the Premier League.
We wish Rooney all the best as he returns to compete in the Championship.
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My Bookie offered 20-1 on Brum being promoted. “Most generous” thought I, slapping on a tenner. Hope I won’t Roo my decision. ( descending to the level of the worst of the red-top papers.)