Wayne Rooney ‘courted’ for new job as Man Utd legend nears four months unemployed
WAYNE ROONEY is tipped to become a key Euro 2024 pundit for the BBC.
It follows main presenter Gary Lineker accepting his fellow England legend’s apology for missing his Match of the Day debut last Saturday.
Ex-Manchester United striker Rooney was sacked just 15 games into his last job in January, a nightmare spell in charge of Birmingham City.
That plunged his managerial career into doubt as it came straight after a mediocre 15-month reign at MLS side DC United.
The 120-cap former Three Lions skipper, 38, says he has dreamed of working on MOTD “since I was little”.
So he was “gutted” when a “painful back injury” on a family holiday stopped him making his debut on the iconic weekend football show of action and opinion.
MOTD host Lineker took Rooney’s explanation well – one big reason why the door is expected to open again soon for the ex-Derby chief at the Beeb.
It’s understood the broadcaster believe the Evertonian’s playing pedigree, especially his ups and downs at major international tournaments, would give their Euros coverage extra credibility with viewers.
Rooney has also already shown he is prepared to give frank views – including recent comments on Red Devils’ frontman Marcus Rashford.
The academy product, 26, has hit out at criticism of his performances and insisted he is as committed to his hometown club as ever.
But Rooney told Premier League productions: “You wonder, is his best option to move away from the club and have a fresh start? But he is a Manchester lad.
“He has had a very difficult season. We all know he has got the ability and got all the attributes to be a top world-class player.
“That’s the frustrating thing. Last season, he went and scored a lot of goals. But this season, he hasn’t kicked on.
“He doesn’t look happy when he is playing.”
However, Rooney did add: “I would love to see him get his career back on track at the club, go on to score goals and try to help the club win trophies. But he certainly has had a difficult season.”