Wayne Rooney has been confirmed as the new manager of Championship side Birmingham City.
On Sunday, it was confirmed that the former Manchester United and England striker left his managerial role at MLS side DC United.
Since then, he has been linked with the job at Birmingham.
On Thursday, the club confirmed the appointment. A statement read: “Birmingham City Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Wayne Rooney as Manager, agreeing terms on a three-and-a-half-year contract.
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“He starts with immediate effect having recently left his position as Head Coach of Major League Soccer side D.C. United.”
Ashley Cole and John O’Shea will retain their coaching roles with their respective national sides despite joining Rooney's backroom staff.
Rooney 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.”
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He continued: “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.”
According to The Sun, Rooney will earn £1.5 million per year during his stay with the Blues, which is over three times more than the salary of previous boss John Eustace.
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Topics: Wayne Rooney, Birmingham City, Football
Marcus Chan