Wayne Rooney has officially ended his playing career, and will now focus on coaching after signing a new contract as manager of Derby County.
Rooney had been interim player-coach for the past two months, following Philip Cocu’s exit from the club.
But now the 35-year-old has officially retired from professional football, and having signed a new 2 and a half year contract, will focus on management.
Rooney is England’s all-time leading goalscorer and the former Everton and Manchester United star is considered as one of the EPL’s greatest ever products.
“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,” Rooney told Derby’s website.
“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.”
“We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Wayne Rooney as our new manager,” Derby County’s Chief Executive Officer Stephen Pearce said
“Our recent upturn in results under Wayne was married together with some positive performances, notably the 2-0 home win over Swansea City and the 4-0 victory at Birmingham City.”
“During that nine-game run we also 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.”
