Wayne Rooney has parted ways with Plymouth Argyle by mutual agreement following a string of poor performances which have seen the club languish at the bottom of the Championship standings.
The reins for the upcoming New Year’s Day fixture against Bristol City will be taken up by first team coach Kevin Nancekivell and the team’s captain Joe Edwards. Although Daryl Flahavan will remain as goalkeeping coach, Mike Phelan, the assistant head coach, and first team coach Simon Ireland are set to leave their positions at the club.
Commenting on his departure, Rooney expressed his gratitude: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the board of Plymouth Argyle Football Club, in particular Simon Hallett and Neil Dewsnip who I shared great relationships with.”
Additionally, he acknowledged the broader club community saying, “Thanks also to all the staff who made me feel welcome and who make the club such a special place, the players and fans for their efforts and support during my time as head coach and I wish them all the best for the future.”
The former England player added a specific shout-out to supporters: To the Green Army thanks for making the games at Home Park so special, they are memories that we will share forever. ” He also recognised his coaching colleagues for their support: “I would also like to give a special mention to my coaching staff Kevin Nancekivell, Simon Ireland, Darryl Flahavan and Mike Phelan for their knowledge, dedication, help and support.”, reports Plymouth Live.
“Rooney concluded with a note of enduring affection for the club: “Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to look out for and take interest in their results.
“In their official statement about the departure, the Argyle administration conveyed its appreciation: “We would like to thank Wayne and his team for all their efforts and wish them well for the future. “”The club will be making no further comment at this stage with updates on our new first team management staff in due course.”.