Wayne Rooney given stay of execution as Plymouth clash postponed amid increasing pressure on ex-Man Utd star

As Storm Darragh batters the United Kingdom from Friday, Saturday's Championship clash between Plymouth and fellow strugglers Oxford City at Home Park has been called off for safety reasons. By the end of this weekend, though, Rooney's Plymouth side could drop into the relegation zone if results go against them, meaning this break could just delay his eventual dismissal.

Rooney took up the reins at Home Park this summer but his side are languishing just above the relegation zone at present. Reports suggest the former Manchester United man is at risk of being sacked despite club chairman Simon Hallett saying they back the 39-year-old for the time being. But if results don't improve soon, he could be out of work in the not so distant future.

A club statement reads: "Having consulted with key stakeholders and the Safety Advisory Group, we have been strongly recommended by the latter to postpone tomorrow’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Oxford United, so it has therefore been postponed. Severe Amber weather warnings are currently in place for various regions around the country, including the South West, with high winds of up to 70mph and heavy rain expected. Red weather warnings have also been issued in key supporter travel areas which will cause a significant risk to those coming from outside the city, including away fans. This decision has been made early to avoid lengthy travel to Plymouth in difficult weather conditions and also in the best interests of supporter safety, as we would never put the safety of fans, staff or players at risk. There is a real danger of flying debris and potential falling trees which could cause danger to life, with damage to buildings and homes also a real possibility. Roads, bridges and railway lines could also close, and the stadium and surrounding area may be hit by power cuts."

Plymouth, who are one place and two points above the bottom three, are next scheduled to play on Tuesday at home to mid-table Swansea City, before taking on promotion-chasers Sheffield United four days later.