Wayne Rooney turned down chance to speak to Everton over manager job and remains committed to Derby

Wayne Rooney turned down the chance to speak to Everton over the vacant manager’s job, insisting he is fully committed to Derby County.

The former Manchester United captain was named among a shortlist of contenders to replace Rafa Benitez, who was relieved on his duties at Goodison Park earlier this month.

Having emerged as one of English football’s great young talents at the club, returning to the blue half of Merseyside towards the end of his career, Rooney was swiftly named one of the favourites for the role.

Everton have spoken to Vitor Pereira and Frank Lampard over the role this week but Rooney has now confirmed he declined an invitation to the interview proves.

Rooney revealed at a press conference on Friday that Everton contacted his agent with the offer to come forward.

‘Everton approached my agent and asked me to interview for the job,’ Rooney said.

‘But I turned it down. I believe I will be a Premier League manager and I am ready for that 100 per cent. But I have a job at Derby, which is important to me.’

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36-year-old Rooney has lifted Derby from the foot of the Championship despite being hit with a 21-point reduction this season.

While they are level on points with bottom club Barnsley, they have been given a fighting chance of survival with the Rams seven points from safety.

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