Wayne Rooney's Struggle to Win Over Plymouth Fans

Wayne Rooney has officially taken the helm at Plymouth Argyle, consulting with former manager Steven Schumacher and Mark Hughes before accepting the role. This marks a significant career shift for Rooney, who had been out of management for five months following a tumultuous tenure at Birmingham City, which ended in relegation. Unlike his previous experiences at Derby County and D.C. United, where he faced transfer restrictions, Rooney now has the opportunity to invest in the squad, with Plymouth boasting a turnover of £30 million last year. Rooney expressed his frustration regarding transfer bids for key player Morgan Whittaker, emphasizing the disparity between his performance and the offers received. He stated, “I think it’s a real insult” to undervalue Whittaker, who has become a pivotal player for the team. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Michael Cooper is also in good form and ready for the upcoming match against Sheffield United, who have shown interest in Whittaker, whose contract is nearing its end. In his initial address to the team, Rooney highlighted a shift in training methods, opting for gym sessions in the mornings followed by football practice in the afternoons, a departure from his own experiences as a player. He acknowledged the need for improvement, particularly in maintaining possession and executing plays from the back. Rooney has also appointed Pete Shuttleworth as his assistant, continuing a partnership that has spanned his managerial career.