Former Manchester United forward and legend Wayne Rooney arrived at Heathrow Airport in England on Tuesday ahead of a reported move to Derby County from MLS side DC United, report agencies.
Rooney, 33, is rumoured to have agreed to a player-coach role under manager Phillip Cocu at Derby, bringing a close to his time in the United States.
Media reports relating to a return to English football began circulating on Monday as Derby opened their Championship campaign with a 2-1 win at Huddersfield Town.
England's most-capped outfield player was said to be flying to London to complete the deal and was spotted at Heathrow the following day, taking photos with fans after his arrival.
The former Manchester United and Everton star has long been expected to go into management, having undertaken coaching courses alongside his duties as a player. The BBC reported that Derby owner Mel Morris believes Rooney could help to get the club back into the Premier League.
“At the moment I can’t say anything,” Cocu told Sky Sports after Derby beat Huddersfield Town. “Like I said before the game we are working on completing the team. It isn’t complete yet. I cannot say anything about names before things are done.
“We have a lot of players we think could be an asset for the team. You always try to get the best you can with the resources at the club. A few more days then hopefully I can say something more.”
Derby appointed Rooney’s former England team mate Frank Lampard as manager last season and he took them to the playoff final but has since joined his former club Chelsea.
Sky Sports said Rooney sees Derby as an ideal opportunity to learn the ropes while also prolonging his playing career.
