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Rooney appointed permanent manager of Championship side Derby

Wayne Rooney, Derby County
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The Manchester United and England legend has called time on his illustrious playing career to fill his first managerial role.

Wayne Rooney has been appointed the manager of Derby County on a permanent basis, the club announced on Friday.

Rooney became the caretaker manager of the Championship side towards the end of November following the dismissal of Phillip Cocu.

An upturn of form was witnessed in the team thereafter, with the Rams remaining undefeated in all but one of their nine matches under the 35-year-old.

The England and Manchester United record goalscorer has now signed a two-and-a-half-year contract to take on the role permanently.

Liam Rosenior will take the role of his assistant, Shay Given becomes the first-team coach, and Justin Walker will remain as first-team development coach. Steve McClaren will remain the club’s technical director and adviser to the board of directors.

“When I first arrived back in the United Kingdom I was completely blown away by the potential of Derby County Football Club,” Rooney told the club’s official website. “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.

“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 honor 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.”

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