Wayne Rooney Becomes Derby County Interim Coach Replaces Phillip Cocu

Wayne Rooney and Phillip Cocu (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - Wayne Rooney will take on the role of Derby County interim coach after Phillip Cocu was sacked from the post of coach of England's second-tier football team on Saturday.

Cocu was sacked after Derby picked up just one win in the first 11 games of the season and landed at the bottom of the Championship standings with six points.

The dismissal of Cocu was also followed by the termination of contracts for his innate staff, assistant coach Chris van der Weerden and coach Twan Scheepers.

Derby has yet to announce a replacement for Cocu, but Rooney - who is on the captain's armband - said he will be part of the coaching staff for the follow-up against Bristol City next week.

"The most important thing is to create stability at this club and start climbing in the standings. I was asked to be part of the coaching staff for Saturday's match next week," Rooney told British media quoted by Reuters on Sunday morning WIB.

Rooney since last January joined Derby as a player and coaching staff.

In the match against Bristol he will be assisted by the likes of Shay Given, Liam Rosenior and Justin Walker until Derby announces a permanent replacement.

"I am sorry that Phillip and his staff have to leave the club. I personally thank you for your help and encouragement as part of the coaching staff," added Rooney.