Wayne Rooney: humility in the face of adversity

Graham Daniels  |  Comment
Date posted:  10 Jan 2025
Share Add       
Wayne Rooney: humility in the face of adversity

Wayne Rooney: he left Plymouth Argyle on New Year's Eve. Source: Wikimedia Commons

Professional football has developed a New Year ritual based around the transfer window. In January, midway through the season, a two-fold routine emerges.

First, clubs at both ends of the league tables charge around frantically, trying to add players to their squads to bolster the chances of promotion or avoid relegation. Second, managers get sacked if they have lost more than three games in the Christmas period, regardless of their previous reputation or record. This ritual, often a make-or-break period for many clubs, can significantly influence a manager's career trajectory. 

Wayne Rooney is one of the most famous ex-players to have entered management in recent years. He's currently on an undesirable hat-trick. On 2 January last year, he was sacked by Birmingham City in the New Year routine after 15 games in charge. This year, he left Plymouth Argyle by 'mutual consent' on New Year's Eve after 25 games. 

Share
< Previous article| Comment| Next article >
Read more articles on:   sport
Read more articles by Graham Daniels >>
Comment
The curious case of the Club World Cup

The curious case of the Club World Cup

The FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) is an international football competition – but it isn't just about showcasing the best …

Comment
Goodbye Goodison Park: Everton and the power of community

Goodbye Goodison Park: Everton and the power of community

As the sun sets on Goodison Park, a stadium that has been a cornerstone of football history for over a …

Need to advertise?

We can help you reach Christians across the country

Find out more

Subscribe

Enjoy our monthly paper and full online access from just £18/year

Find out more