Wayne Rooney sprang a shock with his exit from troubled Derby County.
The 36-year-old might have left behind a club in the third tier after relegation last term, but he departs Pride Park with his reputation firmly enhanced given his handling of what has been a tough situation from start to finish.
Since being made permanent boss in January 2021, Rooney has had to deal with embargoes, points deductions and an ongoing and at times farcical takeover saga.