Ferguson backs Rooney to succeed in management

Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson believes Wayne Rooney’s knowledge of the game and presence will serve him well in his role as Derby County’s new boss, but the Scot cautioned him that management is a results business.

Former England and United striker Rooney called time on his illustrious playing career and was named manager of Championship (second-tier) side Derby on Friday, having been interim boss following Dutchman Phillip Cocu’s departure.

Speaking during an event for Sports United Against Dementia, Ferguson said it was important Rooney took the next step in his career.

“He’s England’s top goal-scorer, he’s Manchester United’s top goal-scorer and he’s had a fantastic career as a player,” said Ferguson, who led United to 13 Premier League titles. “It’ll give him a starting point.”

But “it’s a results industry and you need to get results. He’ll know that better than anyone. He’s had a good start… and he has knowledge of the game, a presence about him, and I hope he does well.

“It’s a big step for him. He’s quite a wealthy young man now with his career in football, so he probably doesn’t need to go into management to look after his family. But he wants to do it and that’s important.

“There’s no point being a manager because someone asks you to be. He went there as a player-coach, he then became player-manager and now he has the manager’s job and that’s what he wanted. Hopefully he does well.”

Derby, who are 22nd in the 24-team Championship, host Rotherham on Saturday.

© Reuters