Wayne Rooney signs on as Birmingham City manager… Days after being sacked from MLS post

Birmingham have announced Wayne Rooney as their new manager.

The former England skipper has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract at St Andrew’s.

Former England teammate Ashley Cole, currently England U21s assistant coach, and John O’Shea – the assistant coach of the Republic of Ireland – will join him.

Carl Robinson and Pete Shuttleworth, who both worked with Rooney at DC United, also move to St Andrew’s.

Cole and O’Shea will keep their coaching roles with their national sides.

Rooney told the club website: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City at such an exciting time. It is very clear that they have a plan and are committed to realising their ambition for the club.

“We are fully aligned on what is expected. I have been building my managerial career, putting myself in challenging environments, to get me ready for this opportunity. It’s a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can’t wait to get started.”

Birmingham co-owner and chairman Tom Wagner said: “Wayne is a born winner. We believe, with the support of his coaching staff, the club, and our supporters, he will take the Blues forward on the next stage of our journey.

“His playing philosophy will help to realise the ambitions we have set for Birmingham City.

“Wayne has been preparing for an opportunity like this since he embarked on his coaching education whilst still a player at Manchester United. He and his staff have the full support of the Board and everyone at the football club.”

Rooney replaced John Eustace who was sacked on Monday.