Wayne Rooney warned to brace himself for criticism as Roy Keane questions his managerial ability
Manchester United legend Roy Keane has warned Wayne Rooney to brace himself for criticism and constant questions over his ability as a manager after landing the Birmingham City job. After spells in charge at Derby County and DC United, the former England international has signed a three-and-a-half year contract at St Andrews following the departure of John Eustace this week.
After a glittering playing career where he became United’s all-time top goal scorer, the 37-year-old is still finding his way in management. With his record so far – 38 wins from 139 games (27.3 per cent), with 36 draws and 65 defeats – Keane fears Rooney’s achievements as a player will be used as a barometer for his success as a manager.
Keane’s Warning
‘You’ve got Lampard, Gerrard and Rooney, but these are lucky lads,’ Keane said on the Stick to Football show. ‘I was lucky to get the job at Sunderland, my first gig after having a half decent career, but the problem is when you have a decent career, when you go through a difficult spell, people throw it at you straight away.
‘Wayne’s stats at the moment are not great because he has had tough jobs, no doubt. The first thing people will say is because you were a top player, does not mean you will be a top manager. But Wayne, like myself, is still learning our trade. But when you have had a good career people throw it in your face straight away. We are learning like everyone else.’
Rooney’s Managerial Record
Rooney took the reins at Derby in November 2020, keeping the Rams up that season. In the 2021-22 season, Derby were crippled by a points deduction having entered administration, with their manager failing to repeat the previous campaign’s great escape.
Rooney joined MLS side DC United in July 2022, missing out on a place in the play-offs this season.
Conclusion
It remains to be seen if Rooney can prove Keane wrong and make a success of his managerial career. He certainly has the pedigree to do so, but only time will tell if he can make it happen. For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.