Reports | Wayne Rooney set to sign for Derby County as a player/coach

With Chelsea legend Frank Lampard joining his former side as their latest manager, Derby County appointed  Phillip Cocu to replace him, on a four-year deal. But, it looks like they’re set to add another former Premier League star in the form of Wayne Rooney. The two sides have already met and have decided on a move for Rooney to Pride Park.

Rams’ chairman Mel Morris has said "It has literally been a couple of days in the offing," Morris told talkSPORT. "The starting point was we understood Wayne was keen to return to UK. We looked to see if we could do anything on the back of it.”

Derby’s coach, Cocu has heaped praises for the striker on the club’s website, “Wayne Rooney is an extremely talented and top-class footballer. It is an exciting prospect for him to be joining Derby County and he can bring so much to this squad, both on and off the pitch. He has enjoyed a wonderful career, both in club football and for England, and he still has so much to give as well."

He went on to add "His credentials speak for themselves. But to have a player with his leadership, skill, experience, character and work ethic will be huge for us. He knows what it takes to succeed as a player and I have no doubt he will have a positive impact right across the club.

The inspiration and motivation this can generate is massive for all of our players from the first team right through to the youngsters in the Academy. It is entirely in keeping with, and in support of, the club’s philosophy and approach. I am looking forward to working with Wayne from the start of next year and welcoming him to the club.” 

Rooney also had a lot to say about his new side, going on to add, “I am very excited about the opportunity that Derby County have provided me with. I am looking forward to joining Phillip Cocu, his coaching staff and the first-team squad from the start of January. I am sure I can make a big contribution and can’t wait to meet everyone, especially the supporters. I am equally excited to begin my coaching career at Derby County working with both the first team and Academy."