Plymouth confirm second departure after Wayne Rooney as fans lament 'big loss'

The striker has followed Wayne Rooney out the exit door following the Manchester United legend's sacking.

Gray joined the club in October 2024 as a free agent on a short-term contract, previously playing in Saudi Arabia.

The former Premier League striker played 13 matches for the Championship side, picking up three goals, one of which was a viral finish.

In November against Watford, standing on the sidelines, Rooney may have had a flashback to April 2013.

Lewis Gibson, a few yards past the halfway line, chipped a long ball for Gray to hit as it came down over his shoulder past a helpless keeper.

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It was reminiscent of the match against Aston Villa at Old Trafford, when Rooney launched a precise ball from just behind the halfway line to Robin van Persie, who struck it perfectly on the volley, sending it soaring past Brad Guzan.

Gray also netted a second goal, deep into stoppage-time, to rescue a much-needed point for Plymouth.

Speaking on the neat finish Rooney said: "His second goal is a fantastic finish but I think the first goal is world-class. I know how difficult that is - the technique, the concentration you need with the ball coming over your shoulder."

Following the announcement of the 33-year-old's departure on social media platform X, many fans were saddened and displeased.

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"I don't think people realise how much of a loss this is, 1 of about 4/5 championship level players we've had this year," said one fan.

The club's hierarchy have also come under fire, as another supporter said: "The club needs to urgently announce new investors, new money and show clear intention in this transfer window. Surely you would try and keep Andre Gray until the end of the season at least."

'Gutted', 'big loss' and 'a shame' is what you'll come across when searching through the comments of the disheartened fans.

The Pilgrims avoided relegation last season by one point as Rooney took over in May of last year following the firing of Ian Foster.

Unfortunately, the side has not been able to turn a corner as they find themselves bottom of the table.

Plymouth have won only four league matches this season, drawing seven and losing 13.

They also have the worst goal difference in the Championship, sitting at -29 thanks to conceding 53 and scoring 24.