WAYNE ROONEY is edging closer to a return to England football after Birmingham sacked boss John Eustace.
Pressure has been mounting on Eustace since the Blues’ American takeover.
SunSport reported last month that former England captain Rooney has been in constant touch with part-owner, and NFL legend, Tom Brady.
And it now seems St Andrews chiefs have moved quickly to get their man after Rooney left MLS side DC United at the weekend.
That’s despite Eustace recording an impressive 3-1 win over local rivals West Brom on Friday night, which saw Birmingham move up to sixth in the Championship.
The Blues released a statement announcing Eustace’s departure, thanking the 43-year-old for his efforts.
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The statement read: “It is essential that the Board of Directors and the football management are fully aligned on the importance of implementing a winning mentality and a culture of ambition across the entire Football Club.
“With this in mind, Birmingham City has today parted company with Head Coach, John Eustace.
“Eustace departs after 15 months in charge, having helped to stabilise and strengthen the Club on the pitch following his appointment in July 2022.
“In his first season at the helm, he guided the team to a 17th-place finish, securing Sky Bet Championship status with three games remaining.
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“During his time at St. Andrew’s, he galvanised the squad to deliver a number of memorable moments in testing circumstances.
“The Club would like to thank John for his contribution. His dedication and work ethic was evident throughout his time in B9 and he will always be welcomed back to St. Andrew’s.
“A new First Team Manager will be announced in the coming days who will be responsible for creating an identity and clear ‘no fear’ playing style that all Birmingham City teams will adopt and embrace.
“The Club will be issuing no further comment at this time.”
It is expected Rooney will be appointed boss in the coming days, with Birmingham not playing again until after the international break.
The Manchester United legend’s son Kai even dropped a huge hint at his dad’s destination, by following a host of first-team and academy stars on social media.
And Wazza is already said to be planning to bring in a couple of pals to work alongside him in the midlands.
Chelsea and England legend Ashley Cole will join as a coach, with Rooney’s old United team-mate John O’Shea also set for a role.
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Rooney, 37, left DC United — who he played for in his first spell in the US — after they missed out on the MLS Cup play-offs.
If he is handed the Blues job during the international break his first game could come against old Red Devils pal Michael Carrick, who is manager of Middlesbrough.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
