Wayne Rooney insists he does not take the criticism personally amid growing frustration among Plymouth Argyle fans at the team’s recent poor results.
The pressure is mounting on Rooney with the former England captain’s side currently bottom of the Championship table after a 2-0 defeat at Oxford United on Sunday.
Argyle have lost six and drawn three of their last nine games, leading to a section of the fans chanting for Rooney to be sacked during the Oxford game.
Rooney’s reaction to today’s defeat.
In partnership with @TheTurmericCo.
— Plymouth Argyle FC (@Argyle) December 29, 2024
However, the 39-year-old says he is not affected by the criticism and believes he can turn the team around.
“When you lose games like we do, that frustration is there so I understand that and I don’t take it personally,” Rooney told the BBC.
“I think criticism is normal considering the results we are going through.
“You have to feel that you can turn it around. I will come 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 head coach back in May, following the sacking of Ian Foster, but the former Manchester United player has had a tough time in England’s second tier this term.
The Pilgrims won just four Championship games all season, drawing six, losing 13 and conceding 51 league goals in the process.
Asked if he felt secure in his job, Rooney said: “That’s a question for the board. I understand how football works so all I can do is keep working 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 been the case in the last few weeks.”
