Wayne Rooney defends himself after boos from Birmingham fans, saying changes at St Andrew's will take time

Wayne Rooney's response to Birmingham boos following 2-0 home defeat to Hull City: «My message to the fans would be to be patient, we need to realise where we're trying to go, not where we are now. That's our aim, that's our ambition and it's what we're hoping to achieve.»

Friday 27 October 2023 06:37, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Wayne Rooney defended his management after he was booed by Birmingham fans at the end of his second game in charge, insisting changes will take time at St Andrew's.

Frustrated Blues fans made their feelings known after watching their club lose back-to-back games following Rooney's appointment.

He took over in controversial circumstances earlier this month from former boss John Eustace — who was sacked with the club sixth in the table.

In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, the former Man Utd and England striker defended his methods and said the style of play the club needs to win promotion from the Championship will be a gradual process.

«My message to the fans would be to be patient,» he said. «I get it, they parted ways with a very popular manager, who did a good job in stabilising the club. I understand there's a bit of frustration, of course I do.

»We need to realise where we're trying to go, not where we are now. That's our aim, that's our ambition and it's what we're hoping to achieve.

«The club has been in a position over the last decade where it's had almost a way of playing which is why they're still in the position they're in.

Latest Championship news

Get Sky Sports

Stream the biggest moments on NOW

Live football on Sky Sports this week

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

»From my point of view, I want to move the