Wayne Rooney issues statement as Plymouth announce his departure from club after disastrous run of form

Wayne Rooney has broken his silence after leaving Championship side Plymouth Argyle on the back of an awful run of form.

The 39-year-old ex-Derby County and DC United boss took charge of Plymouth at the start of the 24/25 season.

However, it has not gone well for the Englishman as his men currently sit bottom of the Championship table, having only collected 18 points from 23 matches.

On Tuesday morning, Plymouth officially confirmed that Rooney had left the club via mutual consent.

First team coach, Mike Phelan, will also depart 23 days after being drafted in by Rooney.

A statement read: "Plymouth Argyle can confirm that the club and Head Coach Wayne Rooney have mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect. Departing the club with Rooney will be Assistant Head Coach Mike Phelan and first team coach Simon Ireland."

Rooney said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Plymouth Argyle Football Club, in particular Simon Hallett and Neil Dewsnip who I shared great relationships with.

"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."

Wayne Rooney has left Plymouth Argyle. Image: Getty

He continued: "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 their match against Bristol City on Wednesday afternoon.