WAYNE ROONEY has named Mike Phelan as his assistant manager at Plymouth.

Pete Shuttleworth resigned from his role as Rooney’s deputy due to personal issues, prompting a restructuring of Argyle’s coaching staff.

Wayne Rooney has hired Mike Phelan as his assistant manager at Plymouth

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Wayne Rooney has hired Mike Phelan as his assistant manager at PlymouthCredit: Rex
Phelan will reunite with Rooney at Plymouth

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Phelan will reunite with Rooney at PlymouthCredit: Getty
The pair worked together at Old Trafford under Sir Alex Ferguson

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The pair previously collaborated at Old Trafford under Sir Alex FergusonCredit: AFP

Rooney has chosen to bring Phelan on board, who previously partnered with the Manchester United legend at Old Trafford during their tenure under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Rooney remarked, “I’m saddened to see Pete depart the club.

“He is someone I have worked closely with throughout my management journey, beginning at Derby County, and he has also been a close friend.

“Pete is facing some personal challenges that need his focus, and we all honor that decision; therefore, we’ve mutually decided to part ways.

“Mike is a familiar presence for me, as we collaborated during my time at Manchester United. He brings a wealth of experience from the highest levels of football.

“I’m excited to welcome him to Argyle and am eager to see him start his role immediately.”

Phelan enjoyed five successful seasons at Manchester United from 2008 to 2012 under Sir Ferguson, achieving both the Premier League and Champions League titles.

He later had stints at Norwich and Hull before returning to United for another four years starting in 2018.

Phelan is now set to coach alongside Rooney, who has been at the helm of Plymouth since May.

Currently, Argyle sits 22nd in the Championship, in the relegation zone solely based on goal difference.

Despite this, they have gone four league matches without a win, with their most recent match ending in a 2-2 draw at home against Watford.