11 October 2023 , 11:41
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Wayne Rooney has hailed the project on offer at Birmingham while underlining his intent to establish a winning culture at the Midlands club.
The former Manchester United and England hero departed DC United last week. He has since been appointed the Championship side’s new manager on a three-and-a-half year deal and replaces John Eustace at the helm.
Rooney takes over a Birmingham side currently sitting sixth in the Championship after 11 games of the season. Speaking to the club's official website after his appointment, Rooney said: “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.
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“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.”
Wayne Rooney left MLS side DC United last week (Getty Images)Will Rooney be a success at Birmingham? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Rooney’s first game with Birmingham will come after the international break. The Midlands side take on Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday 21 October.
His first game at St Andrews comes four days later with a home clash against Hull. That sees Rooney reunited with his former Derby assistant Liam Rosenior, who is head coach of the Tigers.
Rosenior was part of Rooney’s backroom staff at Pride Park having initially joined the Rams under Phillip Cocu. Following the latter’s resignation after Derby’s relegation to the Championship, the former defender was handed the reins on an interim basis.
He oversaw 14 matches in total before being replaced by Paul Warne. Meanwhile, Rooney moved back to MLS for a stint with DC United but he won just 14 of his 53 matches in all competitions and failed to lead the club into the post-season playoffs.