Birmingham City have confirmed that former England striker Wayne Rooney has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract to manage the championship team.

Having recently parted ways with manager John Eustace the Blues have moved quickly to sign Rooney who had recently been managing MLS side DC United.

Reflecting on the deal, Rooney said; “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City Football Club at such an exciting time. It is very clear that they have a plan and are committed to realising their ambition for the club. We are fully aligned on what is expected. I have been building my managerial career, putting myself in challenging environments, to get me ready for this opportunity. It’s a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can’t wait to get started.

Birmingham City are currently in sixth place in the Championship, and Rooney faces a difficult game away at Middlesbrough against former Manchester United team-mate Michael Carrick in his first game in charge.