Wayne Rooney 's problematic time as Derby County boss is over - so what next?
The former Everton and Manchester United player began his managerial career at the troubled Championship outfit and was consistently dealing with minimal resources and financial challenges. With the club now in League One Rooney has decided to walk away.
“Today I met with the administrators to inform them of my decision that it was time for me to leave the club. In fairness to them, they tried tremendously hard to change my decision but my mind was made up," he said in a lengthy statement. In his short spell at Pride Park Rooney showed he has the capabilities to cut it in the dugout, but his next challenge may open further doors - or see them slam shut if he opts for the wrong option.
Thus far he's only experienced England's second tier, but his name and reputation will no doubt see opportunities come his way. Compatriots Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard have both received calls to take on big jobs and Rooney may well be the next. His availability could alert several clubs chiefs - but where will the 36-year-old end up next? We take a look at his possible options.
Everton
The fairytale. Rooney came through the ranks on the blue half of Merseyside, burst onto the scene at Goodison Park before going on to achieve huge things. Everton just avoided the drop last term with Lampard at the helm, but should they find themselves in a similar predicament this autumn then a call could yet be made to Rooney.
Lampard is still fighting the doubters at Everton but with Farhad Moshiri looking to sell up and key players potentially leaving, the future, at least short-term, could prove to be bleak at Goodison. Hiring club legends is always a risky strategy, but Rooney would certainly command the dressing room.
He would also no doubt have the affection of the fanbase, which may afford him more time than most. Rooney will want to time it right if he is to return to his boyhood club, so that may also prove a factor.
Southampton
Another Premier League door could find itself opening at St Mary's in the coming months. Ralph Hasenhuttl is about to embark on his fourth full season at the Saints, but faced calls to be sacked from a section of fans last term.
Southampton haven't been directly involved in any relegation battle during his tenure, but results have been incredibly inconsistent and the Austrian and the club may soon opt to take on new challenges. The Saints have long had an excellent youth system and Rooney would no doubt tap into that if given the opportunity.
The hierarchy at St Mary's have also proven themselves willing to give coaches time. Not only that, they're prepared to take chances - much like they did with one Mauricio Pochettino in 2013.
Norwich City
Another relegation had long seemed inevitable and the Canaries will now look to win a third promotion in five seasons. Dean Smith was appointed last term - a man with a proven track record of gaining promotions from the second tier.
With a squad full of Championship know how, there will be an expectation that Norwich sit near the top of the table from day one. Failure to do so may well see the club pull the trigger and that could open the door for Rooney. Whilst at Derby he spent his entire time at the bottom of the table - he may be handed the chance to see if he can cut it at the top having done impressively with limited resources.
West Brom
The Baggies are another club who have their eyes firmly fixed on promotion. Last term they failed to bounce back immediately and will be looking to prove their highly talent squad can return to the top flight.
Steve Bruce is the man steering them at the Hawthorns, but the veteran boss was hardly making major strides before the season ended. He won just six of his 17 matches and a slow start to the season could see the West Brom bosses cut ties, leaving it open for Rooney to prove he can do a job at the top of the division.
Bournemouth
The Cherries could be another club to offer Rooney a chance to become a top flight manager. Bournemouth recently secured a Premier League return after two years outside the division with Scott Parker leading them to promotion. Parker has twice taken Fulham down and is out to prove he can keep a club up.
Bournemouth have plenty of quality in their ranks and won't meander back into the Championship without doing everything they can. That may well mean a change in the dugout if things are not going to plan and with several young English stars in their squad Rooney may well prove to be a popular choice.
