Simon Jordan has blasted Wayne Rooney for his decision to walk out on Derby County.
Friday saw ex-England and Manchester United skipper Rooney end 17 turbulent months in charge of the Rams.That time had seen the 36-year-old contend with a myriad of issues such as administration, transfer embargoes and a never-ending takeover saga. Relegation from the Championship last season was largely as a result of a whopping 21-point handicap placed on the club.
Since his departure, Rooney has tentatively been linked with a clutch of Premier League and Championship clubs. Instead it appears that he may be set for a break from football, albeit temporarily, with a family holiday before returning to the classroom to finish his coaching badges.
But speaking on talkSPORT , former Crystal Palace owner Jordan let rip at Rooney, claiming his departure was premature. It comes as the Rams edge closer to finally sealing a new buyer with local businessman David Clowes hoping to get a deal done on Wednesday.
"I think he's a b****y fool," Jordan said, when quizzed on Rooney's shock departure. "You've got a club that's dropped into League One with 28,000 fans that are going to be galvanised.
"You've got an owner coming in who has bought the stadium, so they're not mucking about. I think he's (Rooney) a fool.
"Does he think his currency is going to get better somewhere else? Because it's more difficult in League One. It's not a division full of quality so if Derby can actually get some players in the short-term into the building and then build upon it in front of 28,000 fans? You've got to be out of your mind - that's the place to stay!"
Upon announcing his exit from Derby, Rooney posted a lengthy statement saying: "My time at the club has been a rollercoaster of emotions, both highs and lows, but I have to say that I have enjoyed the challenge. Personally, I feel the club now needs to be led by someone with fresh energy and not affected by the events that have happened over the last eighteen months.
"I will remember my time at Derby with great pride and affection and would like to thank all my staff, players and of course the fans for their incredible support. I will never forget you and hope to see you all again in the near future and in happier times. Finally, I am aware that the club still have interested parties who wish to take over the running of the club. To them I say this, Derby County is a great club with a great history and great fans. I wish you all the best and much success for the future."
Liam Rosenior, who acted as Rooney's assistant, has since been confirmed as his replacement initially on an interim basis. Monday saw him take charge of the first day of pre-season training as preparations begin ahead of the club's League One opener against Oxford at Pride Park on July 30.
