Wayne Rooney is reportedly 'likely' to bring in former Manchester United teammate Darren Fletcher if he becomes permanent Derby County manager.

Phillip Cocu was sacked earlier this week as a result of the Rams' dreadful start to the new season, with the East Midlands club bottom of the Championship.

Rooney has been named as part of the interim coaching staff, which also includes Shay Given, Liam Rosenior, and Justin Walker.

The interim staff are set to be in charge of Derby for next weekend's Championship clash with Bristol City while the new manager search continues.

According to The Mirror (15/11, p75), if Rooney gets the permanent job it is 'likely' that Fletcher would join him at Pride Park.

The duo played together at Old Trafford and the Scotsman has been coached the youth sides at the Manchester club since.

He's gained coaching qualifications since leaving Stoke City in 2019 and it appears he could be set for his first senior role should Rooney

Reports have suggested, however, that the Derby captain is not currently being considered as a replacement for Cocu with a four-man including Eddie Howe, Brian McDermott, Nigel Adkins, and Roberto Di Matteo.

Did these 17 Derby County players ever actually score a league goal for the club?

The Verdict

If Rooney does get the permanent job, he'll want to bring in people he can trust and clearly Fletcher is that.

The only concern is that they both lack managerial experience so it would be no surprise to see someone else brought into the coaching staff.

It's going to be interesting to see whether Rooney is the man they turn to, particularly with a takeover impending.