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The chant that led to Wayne Rooney’s demise

Birmingham City have sacked Wayne Rooney after 15 games in charge, with the latest defeat a 3-0 loss to Leeds United on January 1, 2024.

Birmingham City fans made their views clear about Rooney after the latest defeat at Elland Road by chanting it was “time to go” towards the ex-Manchester United player.

Rooney was appointed in October, however, he has lost nine games in 15, which has seen the club drop from sixth to 20th during his tenure.

Garry Cook, CEO of Birmingham City unveils Wayne Rooney as manager in October.
Garry Cook, CEO of Birmingham City unveils Wayne Rooney as manager in October 2023 / Photo by Icon Sport

The away fans at Leeds also sang “Wayne Rooney get out of our club” and “you’re getting sacked in the morning”.

In response to the chants from both home and away fans at Elland Road, Rooney said: “Only chant I did not appreciate was the Jimmy Saville one. Didn’t feel that was acceptable.”

Birmingham were taken over by the US company, Shelby Companies Limited (SCL) before the season in July.

The decision to sack John Eustace who guided the club to a 17th placed finish was widely unpopular with the fanbase and was seen as a significant gamble given Rooney’s limited coaching experience at DC United and Derby County.

Back in July, the co-chief executive of SCL, Tom Wagner, said: “The transition and implementation plans will take time. There will be bumps in the road, but I ask that you get behind the leadership team guiding the club forward, be part of the alliance and continue to give every team that wears the shirt your passionate support.”