Revealed: How Wayne Rooney reacted to ‘dark side of football’ in Plymouth sacking – with Man Utd legend tipped to become ‘top manager’ after enduring ‘horrible time’

Ex-England captain Rooney agreed, by mutual consent, to step down as Pilgrims boss on New Year’s Eve. He had overseen just five wins from 25 games at the helm. With pressure mounting in Devon, the decision has been made to bring another forgettable stint in management to a close for the ex-Birmingham and Derby boss.

While things did not play out as planned for Rooney, the 39-year-old has been hailed for the classy manner in which he reacted to his departure. Plymouth coach Kevin Nancekivell has told the Herald: “Wayne rang me, I have seen Wayne and he's obviously disappointed and really sad. It's a horrible time.

“What I would like to say is people see the Wayne Rooney that is the England international and legend of world football but they don't know him as a person and I have been privileged to get to know him. He's a super human being and a fantastic guy. He showed a lot of class when he came in and said his goodbyes to us so we all wish him really well.”

Rooney made a point of visiting Home Park before bidding farewell to the Championship strugglers, with Nancekivell adding on a man that he still expects to reach the very top in coaching circles: “Wayne rang me Monday night and Tuesday he came in. He was class personified really. He wanted to see the lads but he didn't want to interrupt what we were doing in our planning. He asked if he could come up and see us in the office, which of course he did. He said his goodbyes, wished us well, and we move on.

“It's a real shame. For whatever reason it just hasn't happened, has it? It's the dark side of football I'm afraid where managers pay the price for a team that hasn't picked up enough points, but I'm sure Wayne Rooney will become a top manager at some point in his career. I have got no doubt about that.”

Rooney is rumoured to be readying a return punditry duty before stepping back into the dugout, with time set to be enjoyed alongside his wife Coleen and their four sons before any decision is taken on a possible return to club management.