Leeds United's Championship rivals confirm recruitment of ex-Manchester United duo and Chelsea legend

The Blues have started strongly in the Championship but recently opted to part ways with John Eustace.

Eustace’s replacement has now been announced, with Rooney penning a three-and-a-half year contract at St. Andrew’s.

Following Rooney to the Midlands are his former teammates Ashley Cole and John O’Shea, as well as Carl Robinson and Pete Shuttleworth from his DC United coaching team.

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.

“We have some exciting young players in the squad, and some who are still to break through into the first-team, alongside a core of experienced senior professionals.

"I have a clear way that I want the team to play, and my coaching staff and I will work hard to implement it. We will create a winning culture here with an identity that gets Blues fans on their feet.

“I’ve played at St. Andrew’s and Birmingham City fans were always loud and passionate about their team. It was a really difficult place to come as an opponent and now I get to experience what it is like to have them behind us. My job is to elevate the club to the next level and I can’t wait to get started. I know what the expectations are and our job is to deliver.”

The role is the third of Rooney’s managerial career, following spells in charge of Derby County and D.C. United.

Birmingham’s co-owner and chairman of the board, Tom Wagner, said: “Wayne is a born winner. We believe, with the support of his coaching staff, the club, and our supporters, he will take Blues forward on the next stage of our journey. His playing philosophy will help to realise the ambitions we have set for Birmingham City.

“Wayne has been preparing for an opportunity like this since he embarked on his coaching education whilst still a player at Manchester United. He and his staff have the full support of the Board and everyone at the football club.”