Rooney debuts in Derby win against strugglers Barnsley
Wayne Rooney captained Derby County to victory on his debut for the Rams and set up their first goal as they beat Championship strugglers Barnsley.
Jack Marriott atoned for a number of squandered chances at Pride Park when he poked home Rooney’s free-kick just before half-time to put the Rams ahead.
Barnsley levelled soon after the break when Elliot Simoes tapped in after Derby goalkeeper Ben Hamer spilled Conor Chaplin’s shot.
Martyn Waghorn restored Derby’s lead when he fired home Andre Wisdom’s low cross and the hosts held on for victory.
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Rooney, whose last game was at the end of October for DC United, played the full 90 minutes in the centre of midfield.
Derby remain 17th in a tight table but move level on points with Middlesbrough, while Barnsley are three points off safety in 23rd.