Former Manchester United striker, Wayne Rooney, has been appointed the new manager of Birmingham City on a three-and-a-half-year deal.

Rooney left his role as the head coach of DC United by mutual consent on Sunday, October 8, after they missed out on the MLS Cup play-offs.

Birmingham then began talks with the 37-year-old former England striker just hours after sacking John Eustace on Monday despite the club sitting sixth in the Championship following back-to-back wins.

Rooney will be supported by his former England team-mate, Ashley Cole, who is the current England U21s assistant, John O’Shea, the assistant coach of the Republic of Ireland men’s national team, Carl Robinson, and Pete Shuttleworth, who both worked under him at DC United.

Maik Taylor will remain as goalkeeper coach.

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Cole and O’Shea will retain their coaching roles with their respective national sides.

Speaking on his appointment on Wednesday, Rooney, who has also managed Derby County, said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City Football Club at such an exciting time. It is very clear that they have a plan and are committed to realising their ambition for the club. We are fully aligned on what is expected.

“I have been building my managerial career, putting myself in challenging environments, to get me ready for this opportunity. It’s a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can’t wait to get started.

“We have some exciting young players in the squad, and some who are still to break through into the first team, alongside a core of experienced senior professionals.

“I have a clear way that I want the team to play, and my coaching staff and I will work hard to implement it. We will create a winning culture here with an identity that gets Blues fans on their feet.

“I’ve played at St. Andrew’s and Birmingham City fans were always loud and passionate about their team. It was a really difficult place to come as an opponent and now I get to experience what it is like to have them behind us.

“My job is to elevate the club to the next level and I can’t wait to get started. I know what the expectations are and our job is to deliver.”

The Star