Rooney leaves Plymouth by mutual consent

Wayne Rooney has left Plymouth Argyle by mutual consent after a torrid run that left the club bottom of the Championship table.

The 39-year-old took charge of Plymouth in May but, in seven months in charge, oversaw just four league wins in 23 matches.

The Pilgrims have not won any of their last nine games, with the team booed off by fans following their 2-0 defeat to Oxford United on Sunday, which leaves them four points from safety heading into 2025.

In the Championship this season, Plymouth have faced the most shots (391), the most shots on target (141), have the highest xG against total (44) and have conceded the most goals (51).

At the other end of the field, they have scored the joint-fewest goals in the second tier (22, along with Hull City).

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Plymouth Argyle Football Club,” Rooney said upon his departure.

“Thanks also to all the staff who made me feel welcome and who make the club such a special place, the players and fans for their efforts and support during my time as head coach and I wish them all the best for the future.

Club Statement | Argyle and Rooney mutually part ways.https://t.co/0KM0pdIRO7#pafc

— Plymouth Argyle FC (@Argyle) December 31, 2024

“To the Green Army, thanks for making the games at Home Park so special, they are memories that we will share forever.

“I would also like to give a special mention to my coaching staff, Kevin Nancekivell, Simon Ireland, Darryl Flahavan and Mike Phelan, for their knowledge, dedication, help and support.

“Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to look out for and take interest in their results.”

First-team coach Kevin Nancekivell and club captain Joe Edwards will lead the team for Plymouth’s match against Bristol City on New Year’s Day.