Wayne Rooney responds to links as Burnley search for Sean Dyche replacement
Wayne Rooney has confirmed he remains focused on his current club Derby County despite reports linking him with the vacant Burnley job.
Rooney’s side kept their slim Championship survival chances alive with a 2-1 victory over table-toppers Fulham on Friday night. Despite Fabio Carvalho gifting Fulham an early lead, two second-half goals from Luke Plange and Tosin Adarabioyo leaves Derby nine points off safety with four games remaining. However, the post-match discussion quickly turned into speculation over where the future of Rooney lies.
The Clarets are on the hunt for a new boss following the shock dismissal of Sean Dyche on Friday. Burnley also find themselves in the middle of a relegation dogfight, sitting four points off safety with eight games remaining.
However, despite links to the vacant position, Rooney remained adamant that his sole focus remains on his current position.
As quoted by DerbyshireLive, he said: “I think it is a compliment to me and the staff, and what we have been trying to do here [at Derby], when you are getting linked with Premier League clubs.
“I was surprised when I saw Sean Dyche had been sacked. He has been brilliant for Burnley for the last 10 years.
“I have seen the links in various news articles. But for me what is important is I focus on trying to keep the club [Derby] in this division and the future, my future, depends on this takeover, that needs to be completed.”
Earlier this season, Rooney turned down the chance to join relegation-threatened Everton, instead opting to remain loyal to the Rams.
And following these comments, it appears a similar decision would be made here.
Allardyce listed alongside Rooney as Burnley candidate
Sam Allardyce has been listed as another name being linked to replace Dyche in the Burnley dugout.
Alongside Wayne Rooney, other potential suitors include Slaven Bilic, and Middlesbrough boss Chris Wilder.
While Allardyce has reputation for keeping sides in the Premier League, his history may make him an unpopular choice.
A former Blackburn Rovers man, the Clarets faithful are unlikely to get behind an appointment like this.
However, his track record of keeping clubs inside the top flight may tempt the Burnley board anyway.
READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE: Burnley planning shock move for ‘amazing’ Blackburn Rovers star
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