After just 13 weeks on the job, the former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney was fired as head coach following a 3-0 loss to Leeds on New Year’s Day. He only managed to score 10 of a potential 45 points, which compelled the team to use the axe.
John Eustace, who had an outstanding season debut before being fired by the new owners in October, was replaced by Rooney. The owners’ desire for “a winning mentality” and “a culture of ambition” led them to decide to replace Eustace.
Rooney put out a statement which read: “Football is a results business – and I recognise they have not been at the level I wanted them to be. However, time is the most precious commodity a manager requires and I do not believe 13 weeks was sufficient to oversee the changes that were needed.
“Personally, it will take some time to get over this setback. I have been involved in professional football, as either a player or manager, since I was 16. Now, I plan to take some time with my family as I prepare for the next opportunity in my journey as a manager.”
Birmingham had taken 18 points from their first 11 Championship games before Rooney took over as manager. Nonetheless, a dismal streak that included nine league losses has increased worries about possible relegation, as Birmingham is currently only two spots above the drop zone.
Following their defeat to Leeds, Rooney was subjected to a barrage of abuse from irate Birmingham City supporters, who yelled at the former manager to “get out of our club”. Rooney was undeterred by the taunts and had declared himself a “fighter” who would change the situation.The club’s professional development coach, Steve Spooner, has taken temporary control of the organization. On Saturday, he will manage his debut game as manager—an FA Cup third-round contest against Hull City.
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