Head coach Wayne Rooney has parted ways with Championship side Plymouth Argyle by mutual consent.
The 39-year-old former England captain managed only four league victories while suffering 13 defeats in 23 games since taking over the Pilgrims in May. His departure comes with the team rooted to the bottom of the Championship table.
Rooney joined Plymouth four months after being dismissed by Birmingham City, where his 83-day tenure ended with nine defeats in 15 matches.
The decision follows Sunday’s 2-0 loss to Oxford United, Plymouth’s sixth defeat in a nine-game winless streak dating back to early November. Despite Rooney’s assertion that he didn’t take criticism “personally,” the mounting pressure and poor results sealed his exit.
Rooney was initially hailed as “the perfect candidate” to deliver an exciting, attacking style of football. However, under his leadership, Plymouth scored the joint fewest goals in the division and conceded more than any other team across England’s top four leagues.
‘Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart’ – Rooney
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Plymouth Argyle Football Club,” Rooney said upon his departure.
“Thanks also to all the staff who made me feel welcome and who make the club such a special place, the players and fans for their efforts and support during my time as head coach and I wish them all the best for the future.
“To the Green Army thanks for making the games at Home Park so special, they are memories that we will share forever.
“I would also like to give a special mention to my coaching staff Kevin Nancekivell, Simon Ireland, Darryl Flahavan and Mike Phelan for their knowledge, dedication, help and support.
“Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to look out for and take interest in their results.”