There has been much speculation regarding Wayne Rooney's next move following his decision to walk away from Derby County.
The former England and Manchester United striker quit his post on Friday, after 17 months at the helm of the troubled Rams.
That time in charge had seen Rooney 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. But it appears that he may be set for a break from football, albeit temporarily. The Sun report that he is heading back to the classroom to get his coaching badges finished.
They say Rooney is currently halfway through a Pro Licence course and that he now plans to visit top clubs both at home and abroad. He is also said to be enrolling in the LMA management course. This would appear to rule out the prospect of Rooney landing a managerial vacancy any time soon.
The Pro Licence is mandatory for coaches wanting to work in the Premier League, however there may be a case of special dispensation should Rooney be offered a role before completing the course. Current rules allow coaches without the Pro Licence to manage for 12 weeks meaning Rooney would be free to take up a role once he was in the latter stages of his course.
The report comes off the back of a Mirror exclusive that says part of the thinking behind Rooney leaving Derby was so he could spend more time with his wife Coleen and their children.
A source said: “He will be back, he loves football. Maybe after the summer, if the right opportunity comes up. But you have to get the balance right between work and family.”
Upon leaving Derby, the 36-year-old posted a lengthy statement where he said: "Over the course of the summer I have been closely following developments regarding the ownership of Derby County.
"Today I met with the administrators to inform them of my decision that it was time for me to leave the club. In fairness to them, they tried tremendously hard to change my decision but my mind was made up.
"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."
