Former Everton forward Wayne Rooney has announced his retirement from playing after being named as Derby County's new manager.
The 35-year-old has been interim boss of the Championship side in November following the sacking of Phillip Cocu and has overseen nine matches so far.
During that spell, Derby have won three and drawn four matches, which has been enough to earn him a two-and-a-half-year contract in the Midlands.
Rooney, player-coach at Derby since his return to England in January 2020, has now retired from playing in order to focus on his new position.
Speaking about his new position, Rooney said: “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. 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.”
Rooney started his career with Everton and earned a first-team debut in 2002, shining in a two-year spell before moving to Manchester United in 2004.
After thirteen years with United, Rooney returned to Goodison Park in 2017 before moving to MLS outfit DC United the following year.
