Birmingham City

Last week, Blues opted for a change in direction, dismissing head coach John Eustace despite 17 points being accumulated from their opening 11 Championship games of the season.

Official confirmation came just days after it was suggested that Rooney had been headhunted for the position on the back of his departure from DC United.

The England legend has since penned a three-and-a-half year contract at St Andrew's and he is tasked with delivering promotion to the Premier League.

At the time of his appointment, it was alleged that the 37-year-old had been handed a deal that was worth three times more than Eustace was on prior to his dismissal.

However, Rooney has laughed off suggestion that he is on such a lucrative contract at the West Midlands outfit, claiming that "a load of rubbish" has been written in the press.

Speaking to BBC Radio WM, Rooney said: "There's lots of stuff, especially with it being me. I understand that. There's lot of rumours which go round, but what's been out there is a load of rubbish, to be honest.

"As I said last week I came here because I really like the project. I've turned down jobs which would have paid a lot more but I've come here because I want to be successful. And I want to get this club back to the Premier League.

"But, as for some of the rumours, I just don't get involved with it."

Rooney's first game in charge comes against Middlesbrough - who are managed by former Manchester United and England teammate Michael Carrick - at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Birmingham currently sit in sixth position in the standings, two points adrift of third-placed Preston North End and four ahead of a resurgent Boro who remain down in 16th spot.

This will be Rooney's first game in English football since his departure from Derby County in June 2022, shortly after the Rams had been relegated to League One.