Sky Sports EFL pundit David Prutton has predicted that Wayne Rooney will claim his first victory in temporary charge of Derby County when the Rams face Wycombe on Saturday. 

Since Phillip Cocu's exit, managerial responsibilities have been split between the four-man interim coaching team but it is understood that Rooney will not play against the Chairboys and will instead head of the interim team.

Cocu's departure hasn't led to an improvement in Derby's form, with two consecutive defeats since leaving them six points adrift of safety and bottom of the Championship.

The Rams have not won a game since the 3rd of October, something that Prutton has predicted will change when they welcome fellow bottom three side Wycombe to Pride Park on the weekend.

In his predictions for Sky Sports, he suggested that the home side would claim a 1-0 victory against Gareth Ainsworth's men.

That result would mean Derby climb off the bottom of the Championship and could move as high as 22nd.

It would also be a major boost to Rooney's hopes of taking permanent charge of the Rams, something he has indicated that he is interested in.

Prove you’re a true Derby County fan by getting 100% on this 19-question quiz about former Rams strikers

The Verdict

Saturday is a big moment for Rooney, who is taking on managerial responsibilities having withdrawn himself from the playing side.

If Derby fail to beat relegation-threatened Wycombe then the former England captain's hopes of being Cocu's long-term replacement will likely take a massive hit.

On the other hand, a win would be a real statement for Rooney and may just be the confidence boost needed to spark an upturn in fortunes for the Rams.

The Chairboys should not be underestimated, however, and will feel this represents a fantastic opportunity to claim their third win of the season.