Despite being at the bottom of the championship after 23 games played, there is a chance to save themselves, as they are only four points away from 21st place, which would allow them to avoid relegation to League One. But that is also why the decision had to be made now, ahead of the New Year’s clash with Bristol City in front of their supporters at Home Park. Coach Kevin Nancekivell and defenseman Joe Edwards will lead the team for that game.
Rooney’s assistant Mike Phelan and first-team coach Simon Ireland will also leave the club.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the board of Plymouth Argyle Football Club, in particular Simon Hallett and Neil Dewsnip, with whom I shared excellent relationships,” Rooney said in a club statement.
“Thank you also to all the staff who made me feel welcome and who make the club such a special place, to the players and fans for their effort and support during my time as coach and I wish them all the best for the future. Green Army, “Thank you for making the games at Home Park so special, they are memories we will share forever.”
This is not Rooney’s first short season in the Championship, as it was also sacked by Birmingham City after just 83 days with the club just above the relegation zone. Birmingham ended up dropping to League One, but there is time for Plymouth to avoid returning to the division after being promoted to the Championship at the end of the 2022-23 season after winning League One.
Rooney’s managerial history is turning out to be a mixed bag, with a strong spell at Derby County now erased following spells with DC United, Birmingham City and Plymouth Argyle.
