Rooney looks forward to St. Andrews debut (written for bcfc.com)

Date published: 30.10.2023

Wayne Rooney has targeted a much-improved performance against Hull City at St. Andrew's on Wednesday night.

Blues welcome the Tigers on Wednesday 25 October, kick-off 7:45pm, for a Sky Bet Championship game that will see the Boss take charge of his very first home match for Birmingham City.

The fixture versus Liam Rosenior’s side follows a disappointing defeat at the hands of Middlesbrough on Saturday, but Rooney vowes to amend the false start in front of a St. Andrews crowd.

Manager, Wayne Rooney, in conversation with First Team Coach, Pete Shuttleworth. Photo credit: Aaron Flowers, Birmingham City FC.

Speaking at Birmingham City's training centre, Rooney expressed his excitement for the upcoming game whilst highlighting the importance of finding his first victory with the Club.

“There are moments in the career of a player or a manager that stick with you. Your first home game is one which you always remember.

“I’m looking forward to stepping out in front of the crowd, I’ve got my family coming, and the owners will be there as well, but it only becomes an enjoyable occasion if you win the game, so my focus is on that and nothing else around it.”

Manager, Wayne Rooney, applauds on the sideline. Photo credit: Robin Poulson, Birmingham City FC.

Upon reflecting on the weekend’s performance at the Riverside, the Gaffer made his feelings clear on the improvements he wants to see from his players but admitted it takes time to relay his style of play.

“I didn’t think it was good enough (against Middlesbrough). Once they put us under a bit of pressure we retreated and played deeper, which I understand with the way [the players have previously] been playing.

"Of course, we’re going through a period where we are trying to change the identity of the Club and the players have been great in taking that information in. There’s been a big difference today [in training] compared to the session before the [weekend] game. How the players have taken on the information was pleasing for me.”

Ivan Sunjic battles during the game against Middlesbrough. Photo credit: Robin Poulson, Birmingham City FC.

Chairman Mick Singh of the recognised Blues supporters club, Blues 4 All, offered Rooney backing on behalf of the foundation, acknowledging the dawn of a new long-term sporting project.

"We recognise the vision that the owners want to take the club.

"[Previous manager] John Eustace took the club as far as he could and we owe gratitude to that, but we welcome the next step in our journey and the Blues 4 All group believes Wayne Rooney has the footballing experience to drive Birmingham City forward."

Birmingham City head into the fixture eighth in the league table, while Hull City sit two points behind in tenth position.