WAYNE ROONEY says he is ready to fight, work and battle to get Derby into the play-offs this season.
The ex-England captain is set to make his long-awaited Rams debut on Thursday night at Pride Park against Barnsley
It will also be the first time Rooney, 34, has played in the Championship after leaving MLS side DC United.
He admits it lacks the quality of the Premier League, but knows how competitive the second tier is.
But he hopes he can match owner Mel Morriss ambitions and get Derby into the top fight as soon as possible.
Rooney told Sky Sports’ EFL Podcast: What excites me about the Championship? I dont know yet!
Its a league Ive always watched. But its different to the Premier League, theres more games for a start
Quality wise, its probably not as good as the Premier League
But its a physical league and I know how a lot of these games go. You have to fight and work and battle to get results.
But Ive no problems with that. I know what to expect.
Itd be a similar standard to MLS.
Theres probably a bit more quality in the Championship squads but the MLS has better individual players.
MLS is a competitive league and sometimes that gets looked down on in England.
Rooney says he wants to inspire a run of results that can lift Derby into the top six – and beyond.
He added: When I spoke to Mel Morris, he told me of the ambition of the club and trying to get back to the Premier League.
Add to that the experience of working with Philip Cocu and that was all part of it
But Im at the stage where I just want to be playing now. Football is the motivation, my body feels ready to play
As long as I can benefit the team, Ill carry on. Ive been watching the team and I think were better than how weve been performing.
“We need to improve from where we are in the table. We need to climb and certainly aim for the play offs.
“Ive stayed in contact with the manager since joining the club.
The opportunity came up when Mel spoke to my agent and we listened to the offer.
But the big thing was me making the transition from player to coach and having that coaching role here. That was a big pull.
I feel I can add quality and experience to the team. Theres plenty I can offer to help us do better.
Rooney still does not know what will be his main role in the side.
But with Krystian Bielik being sent off against Charlton, Cocu will need Rooney more than ever.
Rooney added: Where am I playing? I dont know, ability-wise I feel I can play different positions which Ive done throughout my career.
It depends how the manager wants us to play as a team, Ill play striker, No10, midfield.
It has frustrating training and not been able to go out and play.
The only time that happens is when youve been injured and youre in the last week of coming back.
I love playing and watching, I love. Being around football and being involved in it. Its what Ive always done from a very young age.
Ive been with players who dont like football at all and see it as a way of earning a living.
“Ive been fortunate doing what I love.
I dont think Ive missed training for two years, Ill play as long as my body can allow me.”
