Rosenior deserves chance at Chelsea — Rooney

Wayne Rooney has said Liam Rosenior deserves the chance to become Chelsea manager, describing him as one of the best coaches he has worked with.

Rosenior, who is currently in charge of Strasbourg, is a leading candidate for the Chelsea job.

Both clubs share the same owners. The 41-year-old arrived in London on Sunday night for talks over replacing Enzo Maresca, with negotiations said to be advanced.

Rosenior worked as Rooney’s assistant at Derby County between 2021 and 2022 and later became interim manager following Rooney’s departure.

BREAKING: Chelsea part ways with Enzo Maresca

He went on to manage Hull City before joining Strasbourg in 2024.

Rooney said on the BBC’s Wayne Rooney Show, “He’s taken chances, and hopefully that pays off because I think Liam is as good a coach as I’ve ever worked with.

“His detail, how he approaches the day-to-day, he’s as good as I’ve worked with.”

Rooney said Rosenior played a key role during his time at Derby.

“Liam was so important for me,” he said.

“He was incredible in his coaching ability. I was more of the manager and dealing with players and everything.

“So I learned a lot from him from that point of view and then I think he’s done a great job as a whole.”

Rooney, who has managed DC United, Birmingham City and Plymouth Argyle, said he has no doubts about Rosenior’s ability to succeed at Chelsea.

Enzo Maresca left Chelsea after 18 months in charge following a breakdown in his relationship with the club’s owners.

Rosenior last featured in the Premier League as a player with Brighton in 2017, having also played for Fulham, Reading and Hull City. He began his coaching career in the EFL before working with Brighton’s under-23s and later at Derby.

“He’s also got a side which you don’t want to cross him as well,” Rooney said.

“If you don’t take it now, then you’re never going to take it. And I think he’s done his apprenticeship, he’s done his work to try and get to that job.”

Rooney added that Rosenior’s appointment would be significant for English coaches, noting the limited number currently managing in the Premier League.

(BBC)