Wayne Rooney “in line to become Derby County boss”

Derby County are set to turn Wayne Rooney into their new manager. According to the Sun, owner Mel Morris want to appoint the 34-year-old.

Reportedly, Wayne Rooney is in line to become Derby County manager with the Man United legend nearing taking over from Philip Cocu as Rams boss.

Cocu is facing increased pressure in the east midlands. With Derby having won only one of their opening four league games of the season, Cocu is under fire.

The Rams will host Watford this Friday evening. A defeat in the match could spell the end of the Dutchman’s tenure at Pride Park, who is teetering on the verge of being sacked by the club.

The Sun reports that the club’s hierarchy would have sacked Cocu following a negative result against Norwich before the international break.

Ironically, though, Rooney’s strike saved the 49-year-old from being axed. However, the pressure is still on for Cocu to turn the club’s fortunes, and time is running out for him to do so.

Owner Mel Morris is believed to be willing to turn to former England captain Rooney if they lose to the Hornets on Friday.

Manchester United’s all-time record goalscorer is yet to receive his coaching badges, so will be in need of an experienced coach to form part of his backroom staff.

Former Rams boss John Gregory has been identified as the man to help an inexperienced Rooney if he is to take the helm in the dugout.

The 34-year-old joined Derby last year as a player-coach on an 18-month contract after returning from a stint with DC United in Major League Soccer.

Cocu replaced Frank Lampard as manager after the latter left for Chelsea in the summer of 2019. The Dutchman failed to get the club in the playoffs last campaign.