Wayne Rooney to Birmingham City could help fulfil Manchester United managerial ambition

Few perhaps expected Wayne Rooney to last the course as a manager. Too often judged on his background or image, rather than his ability as a boss.

Rooney showed his managerial credentials during an appearance on Monday Night Football five years ago. Donning a black suit and polka-dot tie, Rooney articulated several points about his career and current Premier League affairs while showcasing an excellent football brain. He looked every bit a top-level manager.

His first appointment saw the Manchester United legend take the reins at Derby County, then in a myriad of trouble off and on the pitch. Many felt Rooney would fail in the dugout.

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But people’s perceptions soon changed as he galvanised Derby during their darkest hour. With no money to spend and a threadbare squad, he kept the club in the Championship. A year later, the financial rot had worsened and the Rams succumbed to relegation. Astonishingly, however, Rooney would have kept them up with ease had they not been given a 21-point deduction for breaches of profitability and sustainability rules.

A stint at DC United followed, which ended over the weekend, and the United great now looks set to become the new Birmingham City boss in the Championship. His ultimate aim, however, is back at Old Trafford in the Premier League.

"The whole reason in me going into management is Manchester United. I got offered the job interview for the Everton job," he said. "I want to be Manchester United manager. I know I am not ready now but I have to plan everything I do to make sure one day it will happen."

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