Wayne Rooney insists he does not take the criticism personally amid growing frustration from Plymouth Argyle fans at the team’s poor recent form.
The pressure on Rooney has increased with the former England captain’s side currently bottom of the Championship table after losing 2-0 to Oxford United on Sunday.
Argyle have lost six and drawn three of their last nine games, prompting a section of fans to call for Rooney’s dismissal during the match against Oxford.
Rooney’s reaction to today’s defeat.
In collaboration with @TheTurmericCo.
— Plymouth Argyle FC (@Argyle) December 29, 2024
However, the 39-year-old says the criticism does not affect him and believes he can turn the club’s fortunes around.
“When you lose games like we do, there’s that frustration, so I understand that and I don’t take it personally,” Rooney told the BBC.
“I think criticism is normal with the results we are going through.
“You have to feel like you can turn it around. I will go back, watch the game, assess the game and prepare for Bristol (City).
“I understand (the fans’ reaction), I was there myself when I was young and I was there as a fan when you want to see your team win.”
Rooney was appointed Plymouth manager in May, following the sacking of Ian Foster, but the former Manchester United man has struggled in England’s second tier this term.
The Pilgrims have won just four Championship games all season, drawing six, losing 13 and conceding 51 league goals in the process.
Asked if he felt safe when his job was secure, Rooney said: “That’s a question for the board. I understand how football works so all I can do is keep trying to work as hard as I can.
“For all of us, we’re trying to do the right things and help us win games – unfortunately that hasn’t happened in recent weeks.”
2024-12-30 14:55:00
