Wayne Rooney sends clear message to Derby County players

Derby County boss Wayne Rooney has challenged his players to change his mind on their futures at Pride Park in their remaining two league games of the campaign, speaking to Derbyshire Live.

The 36-year-0ld is facing a big rebuild in the East Midlands in the summer after already losing some of his most valuable assets prior to the end of this term, with Graeme Shinnie and Phil Jagielka both exiting the club during the winter window.

Although it has been revealed that most of his players want to remain at the club despite their drop to League One, Rooney may see some of those plying their trade elsewhere once the season ends as he looks to recruit those who will provide value for money.

Although some players are almost guaranteed to be offered new contracts when a takeover is finally complete, including captain Tom Lawrence who could be a real game-changer in the third tier, others could be looking for new clubs with the Manchester United legend planning ahead for the 2022/23 campaign.

With just two league games remaining until the season ends, with the Rams travelling to Blackpool this weekend before returning to the Midlands to host Cardiff City, time is running out for those who want to show they deserve to be offered fresh terms before their respective deals expire in the summer.

However, Rooney still believes it’s an important period for those in that category to shine – and also sent a clear message to his younger players as he spoke to Derbyshire Live.

He said: “I am in the middle of making decisions on players, so I think it is only right I give players opportunity to play, whether that is to change my mind or to convince me they are ready to play and step up next season.

“These are decisions I have to make and it