Wayne Rooney: Former Manchester United star sacked as Plymouth Argyle manager after just seven months
Wayne Rooney lasted just over seven months as Plymouth Argyle manager, with the former England forward struggling to assuage relegation fears at the Championship club. Plymouth are yet to win away from home this season, and Rooney's three-year contract was cut short after a string of poor results and performances. Rooney was axed from his position as Birmingham City head coach in January 2024.
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Wayne Rooney has been sacked as Plymouth Argyle manager after just seven months in charge.
The former Manchester United striker took over the Championship side in May 2024, replacing interim head coach Neil Dewsnip at the helm.
But with the Devon-based club rooted to the bottom of the second tier, with 18 points from 23 games, Rooney was relieved of his duties.
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The England legend oversaw just 25 matches in all competitions while at the club.
The final straw was a 2-0 defeat to fellow relegation strugglers Oxford United on Sunday, the last chapter of a wretched run featuring heavy defeats against Frank Lampard's Coventry City, Bristol City and Norwich City.
The Pilgrims' last victory came against Portsmouth on November 5 and they are still searching for their first win away from home this season.
Rooney saw his previous role as Birmingham City head coach cut short, less than four months into his spell at St Andrew's, after winning just twice in 15 matches.
Kevin Nancekivell will take charge of Plymouth for their clash with Bristol City on New Year’s Day, but Rooney's assistant Mike Phelan and coach Simon Ireland will also both depart the club.
Rooney thanked the club and its fans for the opportunity.
"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," he said.
"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."
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