Wayne Rooney aims 'dig' at Birmingham City in 151-word message after sacking

Wayne Rooney has issued a 151-word statement following his sacking from Birmingham City, thanking the Blues board for the opportunity but making a slight dig at the lack of patience.

The former Manchester United and England captain recognises the 13 per cent win record was far from sufficient but feels the mere 83 days in charge weren't enough to turn things around.

Posting on X, Rooney said: "I would like to thank Tom Wagner, Tom Brady and Garry Cook for the opportunity to manage Birmingham City FC and the support they all gave me during my short period with the club.

"Football is a results business - and I recognise they have not been at the level I wanted them to be. However, time is the most precious commodity a manager requires and I do not believe 13 weeks was sufficient to oversee the changes that were needed.

"Personally, it will take me some time to get over this setback. I have been involved in professional football, as either a player or manager, since I was 16. Now, I plan to take some time with my family as I prepare for the next opportunity in my journey as a manager.

"Finally, I wish Birmingham City and its owners my best wishes in the pursuit of their ambitions."