REBORN IN THE USA

Roo happy to take his time and learn about being a boss

- JOHN CROSS

WAYNE ROONEY was the original wonderkid who became a teenage superstar. 

But while his playing career started at a frantic pace, he is ready to take a different approach as a manager.

That explains why Rooney finds himself in Major League Soccer as manager of DC United and the MLS All-Star team but ready to take his time and learn valuable lessons for his career development.

Still only 37, Rooney has moved to America, away from his family, and lives with the rest of his coaching staff.

It is a sacrifice that he has made to ensure that he is on the path to becoming a top manager.

Rooney said: “It’s been a great experience. I had the challenges at Derby, but coming out here has been about gaining experience and to try to develop as a coach.

“I know I am not where I want to be but these next few years are really important in terms of getting to grips with the role and getting the best out of myself and eventually out of the players. It is something I am really enjoying.