‘The club needs fresh energy,’ says Wayne Rooney as he quits Derby County

Wayne Rooney has resigned as manager of Derby County, admitting the team needs a leader with “fresh energy” to guide them during a time when the ownership is uncertain.

After a protracted period of uncertainty, which resulted in the club being demoted to Sky Bet League One, Derby is still in administration.

Rooney won a lot of praise for his efforts with the team in their fight against the drop.

Rooney said: “Over the course of the Summer I have been closely following developments regarding the ownership of Derby County.

“Today I met with the administrators to inform them of my decision that it was time for me to leave the club. In fairness to them, they tried tremendously hard to change my decision but my mind was made up.

“My time at the club has been a rollercoaster of emotions, both highs and lows, but I have to say that I have enjoyed the challenge.

“Personally, I feel the club now needs to be led by someone with fresh energy and not affected by the events that have happened over the last eighteen months. I will remember my time at Derby with great pride and affection and would like to thank all my staff, players and of course the fans for their incredible support. I will never forget you and hope to see you all again in the near future and in happier times.

“Finally, I am aware that the club still have interested parties who wish to take over the running of the club. To them I say this, Derby County is a great club with a great history and great fans. I wish you all the best and much success for the future.”