Rooney puts to one side fondness for Derby

THREE POINTS FOR ARGYLE ARE ALL THAT MATTER TO HEAD COACH

- CHRIS ERRINGTON

DERBY County was the club where Wayne Rooney ended his illustrious playing career as he set out in football management for the first time.

Now Rooney is returning to Pride Park tomorrow, but this time as the head coach of Plymouth Argyle as they seek a first away Championship win of the season.

Off the pitch, it will be a chance for Rooney to catch up with some familiar faces following his hugely challenging time at Derby, which included the club going into administration and being on the brink of collapse, while also being relegated to League One.

However, the 39-year-old has made it clear the 'soft spot' that he has for Derby will not extend into the 90 minutes of action tomorrow afternoon as Argyle try to build on their 1-0 victory over Portsmouth at Home Park on Tuesday night.

Rooney said about his return to Derby: "I have got very good memories. I met some very good people who we worked with through very difficult moments at the football club.

"I think during my time there we created a real good environment, so really fond memories. It will be good to see a few old friends who I haven't seen for a while. It will be nice from that point of view but my job is here, my loyalty is here and we have to go there and try to get three points."