Wayne Rooney 'sacked by Birmingham City' after Leeds United thrashing

Wayne Rooney has been sacked as Birmingham City manager after just 15 matches. The former Manchester United and England captain has led Blues to just two wins since joining on October 11 and he has been under pressure for some time.

Supporters started to become on board with Rooney following victories over Sheffield Wednesday and Cardiff City but just 10 points out of an available 45 has seen most lose their patience. Calls for Rooney to go were very clear on New Year's Day as Birmingham lost 3-0 at Leeds United – and now he's gone.

Blues have officially pulled the trigger and relieved Rooney of his duties, just 83 days after his appointment. Explaining the decision, Garry Cook, Birmingham's chief executive officer, said: “We are committed to doing what is necessary to bring success to St. Andrew’s.

"Unfortunately, Wayne’s time with us did not go as planned and we have decided to move in a different direction. The search for a successor begins with immediate effect and we will update supporters when we have further news."