Wayne Rooney is set to replace Philippe Coque, a Dutchman who is expected to be fired, as Derby manager.

Manchester United legend Rooney joined the derby as a player in January, taking over the captaincy for the Rams.

But his leadership skills can be taken to a new level at Pride Park, where the former England international is now lined up with the best job in the derby.

Accordingly The sunFriday’s clash with Watford could be Bose Koku’s last match in charge if he defeats the East Midlands team.

The pressure on the Barcelona legend has been mounting for weeks, with Rooney’s last-minute victory over Norwich earlier this month saving Koku from the sack.

While the derby is in twentieth place with just three points so far, owner Mel Morris has realized he is ready to give Rooney his first job in management.

The 34-year-old does not have any of his FA coaching badges yet, but he has expressed interest while at United and has admitted he wants to move to the hot seat at some point.

“I’ve always been interested in it,” Rooney said as he joined the derby.

“When Louis van Gaal was manager at United, Ryan Giggs was analyzing opponents. I would go there a few hours after training.”

Want to stay on the ball with the latest football news?

See also  Locatelli with Veratti, Berardi instead of cheese-courier

Sign up for the new Daily Star Sport Email Newsletter!

Get everything from the latest transfer news to agenda setting stories to your email inbox.

How do you sign up?

It only takes seconds.

Type your email address in the box at the top of this article and click ‘Subscribe’.

That’s it, it worked. Every morning you will receive an email containing all the important news.

You can find more information in our email newsletter at this link.

Former Rams manager John Gregory is considered by the club to be Rooney’s second seed after leaving the Indian Super League team Chennai FC last year.

Mike Phelan, who is currently on the backroom team of Ole Gunnar SoulsJair, has also been mentioned along with the role.