WAYNE ROONEY ignored the plea of Derby County administrators and sensationally quit the crisis-hit club last week.
The Manchester United legend reckons someone with a ‘fresh energy’ is required to lead the club on their pursuit to return to the Championship.
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But does that mean the 36-year-old has something else in the pipeline?
Talks continue off the park as the Pride Park club searches for new ownership following the breakdown of takeover talks.
Rooney was prominent in the betting for recent vacancies at Everton and Burnley – later filled by Frank Lampard and Vincent Kompany.
Following relegation, Rooney told Derby supporters he would stand by the club and spearhead their promotion push.
So what has changed and does he have his eyes somewhere else?
What do the odds say?
Bookmakers Betfair make Everton the 7/4 favourite to be Rooney’s next destination as boss.
He was linked with the role when Rafa Benitez left but said he wanted to see through the job with the Rams as they battled relegation.
The Toffees just stayed up in the top flight and Lampard still has two years left on his current contract.
Next best is well-backed financial powerhouse Newcastle United.
Eddie Howe became a real fan favourite after the turnaround at the club following his appointment midway through last season.
They are 13/2 to offer Rooney his next management job, though.
Next is Southampton at 9/1 with Ralph Hassenhuttl amongst the favourites to leave his post first in the league next term – could Rooney be waiting for that?
It would present him with his first Premier League job and a top flight club who will be battling for a top half finish.
After Leicester City also at 9/1, the next one wouldn’t go down too well with United fans – Leeds are next in at 10/1!
Would Leeds fans be happy with that appointment either? Perhaps not.
They are the same price as Rooney making the move across to America to manage any side in the MLS.
Championship side Norwich City are at bigger odds of 14/1 with Betfair.
The Canaries will again be looking for a sharp return to the Premier League after last year’s dismal survival attempt.
Dean Smith was brought in midway last campaign and is contracted until next summer but it could potentially open an avenue into the Premier League for Wazza.
A return to Old Trafford is likely another managerial step away in terms of his career so far but they are priced up at 16/1 with Betfair.
Erik Ten Hag has only just taken the reins and should be given time to rebuild after a hugely disappointing season last year.
Chelsea are amongst a whole host of clubs given a price at much bigger odds and they are 33/1.
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