3/1 To Win
Phillip Cocu says he’s delighted that the moment has finally come to be able to call upon Wayne Rooney as a Derby County player.
Rooney has now officially been registered as a Derby player following the opening of January transfer window earlier today.
England and Manchester United’s all-time leading goalscorer has joined the Rams on an initial 18-month contract until the summer of 2021, with the option of a further year.
As well as penning a playing contract with Derby, Rooney has also linked up with the Rams as a coach under Cocu and will continue to develop his coaching credentials in preparation for a potential managerial career.
Rooney, having been registered as a player and allocated squad number 32, could make his debut in Derby’s home fixture against Barnsley in the Sky Bet Championship on Thursday evening (7:45pm kick-off).
“If a player with the qualities, career and experience of Wayne Rooney is in your squad you have to be very happy,” said Cocu.
“We have a few injuries and suspensions at the moment, so he is in consideration to be in the starting line-up.
“Wayne is fit and he can start, if selected, but like any player he will need a few games.”
He added: “We know the expectation will be high and we need to give him time to build up his minutes. It is important to get him in the team as soon as possible, so we can get a certain shape that we are looking for.”
Rooney, who scored 53 times in 120 appearances for England, has won an incredible 16 honours in club football to date.
