Derby County’s Rooney joins Newcastle managerial shortlist
Newcastle have reportedly included Wayne Rooney on their managerial shortlist amid doubts over Steve Bruce’s future at St James’ Park.
The Magpies’ new Saudi Arabian owners are said to be weighing up the idea of replacing Bruce with an elite-level coach following their £300million takeover earlier this month.
A number of world-class names are therefore being linked with the job, including former Chelsea and Inter Milan boss Antonio Conte and ex-Roma manager Paulo Fonseca.
And according to SPORTbible, Rooney is also a shock contender to take the Toon reins after being named on the shortlist to become their new manager.
The 35-year-old, who has been in charge of Derby for the past 11 months, is understood to be ‘extremely interested’ in moving to Newcastle if the opportunity arises.
His future at Pride Park has been the subject of speculation ever since it was announced Derby were going into administration.
The Rams have formally appealed against the 12-point deduction they were handed last month, but while sat the bottom of the Championship their situation appears as bleak as ever.
Newcastle could offer Rooney an escape from his Derby nightmare if they choose to part company with Bruce, who has failed to win his first eight games of the new campaign.
Sunday’s 3-2 defeat at home to Tottenham extended that miserable run and plunged his future as Magpies boss into even further doubt.
READ ALSO Wayne Rooney opens up on rugged upbringing
After the loss, Bruce said: “Every football club needs clarity, from the top right the way through. The new owners have been very respectful.
“My future is for other people to decide. I will carry on as best I can until I hear otherwise. I will see what they have to say.” Next up for Bruce and Newcastle is a crucial trip to Crystal Palace on Saturday, which fast track decision. Rooney had earlier vowed to swim or sink with Derby County even as the club hit administration with possibility of sending some players and workers packing.