Wayne Rooney leaves Plymouth manager role after poor run of results

Wayne Rooney has left Plymouth Argyle after just seven months in charge of the Championship club.

Plymouth announced on New Year’s Eve that they had mutually agreed to part ways with Rooney, who was hired in May.

Rooney leaves with Plymouth sat bottom of the Championship and four points from safety after they failed to win any of their past nine games.

Plymouth fans called for Rooney to go during Sunday’s 2-0 defeat at Oxford and the former England captain has now left the club.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Plymouth Argyle Football Club, in particular Simon Hallett and Neil Dewsnip who I shared great relationships with,” said Rooney.

“Thanks also to all the staff who made me feel welcome and who make the club such a special place, the players and fans for their efforts and support during my time as Head Coach and I wish them all the best for the future.

“To the Green Army thanks for making the games at Home Park so special, they are memories that we will share forever.

“I would also like to give a special mention to my coaching staff Kevin Nancekivell, Simon Ireland, Darryl Flahavan and Mike Phelan for their knowledge, dedication, help and support.

“Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to look out for and take interest in their results.”

Assistant head coach Mike Phelan and first-team coach Simon Ireland are also leaving Plymouth with Rooney.

First-team coach Kevin Nancekivell and club captain Joe Edwards will be in charge for Plymouth’s clash with Bristol City on New Year’s Day.

Rooney is now out of work for the second time this year after being sacked by Birmingham City on January 2.

The 38-year-old lasted less than three months there and lost nine of his 15 games in charge.