Wayne Rooney could follow in Brian Clough's legendary footsteps by being given the Freedom of Derby.
The former Manchester United and England captain has won plenty of plaudits for managing what has been a far-from ideal situation at the East Midlands club. Since being confirmed as head coach in January 2021, Rooney has had to contend with an ongoing takeover saga, points deductions, transfer embargoes and the club being in administration for the vast majority of last season.
That led to an almost-inevitable relegation from the Championship, as the 21-point handicap proved too big an obstacle to overcome. Despite being consigned to League One, Rooney may well now join a select band of sportsmen to be bestowed the Freedom of Derby - including ex-Rams player Reg Harrison and legendary boss Clough, who led Derby to the First Division title in 1972.
The Freedom of the City is awarded by a local council to either an individual or military unit in recognition of their exceptional service to the city, with Derby City Council poised to discuss the idea of Rooney being awarded such an honour at a meeting on May 25.
The motion has been called by councillor Steve Hassall and was seconded by his fellow councillor Jonathan Smale. The council motion to be considered states the club's "unprecedented uncertainty and challenging times" had been a "worrying and troubling time for supporters and non-supporters alike".
It adds: "It has not gone unnoticed that Wayne Rooney has been steadfast in his loyalty, support and determination to ensure he and the team remain committed to both the club and fans. Wayne Rooney has demonstrated that his integrity, passion and unquestionable loyalty for Derby County Football Club, fans and the city is absolute and we could not have asked for a better figurehead to champion our cause and lead in all senses of the word, during such perilous times.
"To Wayne Rooney, this city gives its wholehearted thanks and in recognition of our gratitude we would like to bestow one of our oldest and highest honours to someone we are all proud to say is one of our own. Wayne Rooney you are a Ram."
Rooney's bond with the Derby fans was perfectly encapsulated when just hours after relegation being confirmed he gave a stirring speech to a clutch of supporters who had gathered at the training ground to welcome the team coach back.
Rooney told the supporters: "We're grateful for the support you've shown us all season. It's been f***ing tough, been hard. Difficult moments for us, for you (fans) especially. But we've tried our best, we've given everything we can. It's unfortunate we've been relegated but now we'll plan to make sure this club comes back."
The 36-year-old, who has another year left on his current contract, has repeatedly stated he is committed to the club as long as a takeover gets rubber-stamped.
Chris Kirchner is inching ever closer to making that a reality, with positive murmurings coming from both the American businessman's camp as well as the English Football League (EFL). But key to negotiations reaching a positive conclusion is the issue surrounding Derby's Pride Park stadium, which is still owned by ex-chairman Mel Morris.
In order for a takeover of the club to go through, an agreement on either leasing the ground or buying it outright from Morris has to be agreed.
