Millwall boss gives verdict on Derby’s Wayne Rooney – and why The Den is no respecter of reputations

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Gary Rowett has admitted that Derby County’s form has picked up since Wayne Rooney’s arrival – but has spelled out that Millwall are facing multiple threats on Saturday.

The Lions are two points behind the play-off places after an excellent 3-0 victory at Nottingham Forest.

Rooney, 34, has scored four goals in 15 appearances for the Rams since arriving in January.

The former England captain missed Derby’s weekend win over Blackburn Rovers with a muscle injury.

“On one hand it is probably a bit unfair on some other players that the spotlight is purely on Rooney – because they have got some other good players who have performed really, really well,” said Rowett, a former Derby manager.

“But what I have to say is that he has had a really positive impact – not just on the pitch, which you expect with someone of his quality, but also off the pitch. I can only imagine their players want to raise their game because he’s around and has been a top, top player.

“But at the same time when you are coming down to Millwall it doesn’t necessarily matter who you are or that you are a good player. He is one we have to stop but they have got other good players.

“Since he has come in their results have been much, much better. He has been the catalyst they have hoped for. His signing has proven to be a very, very astute one.”