Wayne Rooney Is A 'Fool' For Leaving Derby County And Is 'Nowhere Near' A Premier League Job, Claims Simon Jordan

Rooney, 36, announced his decision to step down from his role at Derby on Friday after a demanding 19-month spell in charge.

Rooney won plaudits last season for his leadership at Pride Park throughout a difficult season which ended in relegation from the Championship after the Rams were docked 21 points for entering administration and breaching EFL accounting rules.

But former Crystal Palace owner Jordan believes the former Everton and Manchester United forward has made a mistake in walking away from Derby following their relegation to League One.

"Someone asked me earlier on if that means he's a shoo-in for a Premier League job. They've bumped their head. He's nowhere near that. I'd be surprised if Wayne got another Championship job any time soon.

"I think he's a bloody fool. You've got a club that's dropped into League One with 28,000 fans that are going to be galvanised up the ying-yang. You've got an owner that's coming in there - he's bought the stadium too, so he's not mucking about - I think he (Rooney) is a fool.

"If he thinks his currency's going to get better somewhere else, because it's a bit more difficult in League One and it might need a bit more manoeuvring and manipulating.

"League One is not a division full of quality. If Derby can get some players, in the short-term, into the building and build upon it with 28,000 fans and the momentum behind that, you've got to be out of your mind (to leave). That's the place to stay."

Rooney informed Derby of his decision to resign on Tuesday, admitting the team now needed "fresh energy" in charge as the uncertainty over the club's ownership continues.

"Over the course of the Summer I have been closely following developments regarding the ownership of Derby County,” said Rooney.

"Today I met with the administrators to inform them of my decision that it was time for me to leave the club. In fairness to them, they tried tremendously hard to change my decision but my mind was made up.

"My time at the club has been a rollercoaster of emotions, both highs and lows, but I have to say that I have enjoyed the challenge.

"Personally, I feel the club now needs to be led by someone with fresh energy and not affected by the events that have happened over the last eighteen months.

“I will remember my time at Derby with great pride and affection and would like to thank all my staff, players and of course the fans for their incredible support. I will never forget you and hope to see you all again in the near future and in happier times.

"Finally, I am aware that the club still have interested parties who wish to take over the running of the club. To them I say this, Derby County is a great club with a great history and great fans. I wish you all the best and much success for the future."