Plymouth chief hits back at Wayne Rooney claim after Man United legend's sacking changes plans

Plymouth's chief, Simon Hallett, has dismissed claims that Wayne Rooney was hired as a publicity stunt, confirming that a planned documentary will no longer go ahead. Rooney, 39, took on the role of Plymouth's head coach last summer, despite a disappointing spell at Birmingham City the previous year.

Despite being given every opportunity to succeed with the Pilgrims, the Manchester United legend was let go two weeks ago following a poor run of form that saw the club plummet to the bottom of the Championship table. The decision to bring Rooney onboard was met with scepticism in the summer, with some questioning the motives behind the move.

However, Hallett maintains that the club genuinely believed Rooney was the right person for the job. "Raising our profile was not one of the considerations in hiring Wayne Rooney," he stated in an update posted on the club's official website.

"We thought that he would be able to help us win football matches. During Wayne's tenure as Head Coach, we saw glimpses of what was possible, but clearly both results and underlying performances were showing few signs of being at the level we need.

"We thank Wayne for what he did achieve in his months at the Club. He united the players, helped restore a positive attitude at the Club and won over the fans whose support had been tested for a few months in 2024. His approachable nature and down to earth personality made him a popular figure and we will miss him."

After confirming that the club would be announcing Rooney's successor soon, Hallett addressed plans for a documentary, admitting it was seen as an opportunity to elevate the club's profile. The decision to split with Rooney has, however, halted these plans.

Hallett confirmed, "As a result of