New Birmingham boss Rooney eager to 'take the club to the next level'

Wayne Rooney is ready to let the good times roll at Birmingham after he was appointed as their new manager.

The Blues, sixth in the Championship, announced the sacking of John Eustace on Monday and a move for the five-time Premier League winner has been inevitable ever since.

Rooney takes over at St Andrew's after leaving his role at DC United last week and is the choice of City's American owners — including NFL legend Tom Brady — to lead the club forward.

The former Manchester United and England legend striker: "I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City at such an exciting time.

"We are fully aligned on what is expected. I have been building my managerial career, putting myself in challenging environments, to get me ready for this opportunity.

"It's a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can't wait to get started.

"I have a clear way that I want the team to play, and my coaching staff and I will work hard to implement it. 

"We will create a winning culture here with an identity that gets Blues fans on their feet.

"My job is to elevate the club to the next level and I can't wait to get started. I know what the expectations are and our job is to deliver."

Rooney will be supported by former team-mates Ashley Cole and John O'Shea at St Andrew's.

And the club's co-owner Tom Wagner heralded the move for a legendary name in the history of English football as a sign of their ambition. 

He said: "Wayne is a born winner.

"His playing philosophy will help to realise the ambitions we have set for Birmingham City.

"Wayne has been preparing for an opportunity like this since he embarked on his coaching education whilst still a player at Manchester United."

Rooney will take on former team-mate Michael Carrick in his first game in charge as City travel to Middlesbrough on Saturday, October 21.