Rooney in Derby dugout on first matchday as player-coach gets set for new career chapter but can’t play for month

Posted Sunday, December 01, 2019 by Thesun.co.uk

WAYNE ROONEY took the first steps on his coaching career as he sat in the Derby dug-out for their game against Queen Park Rangers.

Rooney began work in his new role as player-coach of the Rams this week after ending his adventure in America.

Wayne Rooney took his seat in the Derby dug-out for the first time since becoming player-coach Credit: Getty Images - Getty

Welcome, @WayneRooney! 👋 pic.twitter.com/elR3g8grLH
— Derby County (@dcfcofficial) November 30, 2019

The 34-year-old joined in training with his new team-mates at the Championship club - the fourth in his glittering career.

But he is unable to actually play for the Rams until the transfer window opens in January because his registration cannot be transferred from DC United until then.

So he has to make do with coaching for the next month as he learns the ropes from manager Phillip Cocu.

That meant he could only take his place alongside the Dutchman in the dugout at Pride Park for the 1-1 home draw against QPR.

Rooney in Derby dugout on first matchday as player-coach gets set for new career chapter but can’t play for month
Rooney received the acclaim of the Derby fans before the game against QPR Credit: Reuters

But Rooney was still given a warm reception by the Derby supporters as he was introduced to them for the first time before kick-off.

Rooney becomes the latest of the so-called Golden Generation of England players to make his way into coaching.

Steven Gerrard has enjoyed success in his 18 months in charge of Rangers in Scotland, while Frank Lampard has made a big impact first at Derby and now as Chelsea boss.

Former Three Lions captain John Terry is impressing in his coaching role with Aston Villa, having j0ined the backroom staff under Dean Smith.

Sol Campbell performed heroics keeping Macclesfield up last season, before taking over struggling Southend last month.

While ex-England team-mates Ashley Cole and Joe Cole are also now in coaching roles with Chelsea.

Rooney in Derby dugout on first matchday as player-coach gets set for new career chapter but can’t play for month
Rooney is unable to play for Derby until the transfer window opens in January Credit: PA:Press Association