Derby County make stance clear to Everton should they make Wayne Rooney approach to become manager

Wayne Rooney is a leading candidate to land the Everton manager's job.

The former Toffees striker is one of several candidates under consideration to succeed Rafa Benitez at Goodison Park.

The search is on

The axe was wielded on Benitez after he won just one of 13 Premier League matches, which culminated in an embarrassing 2-1 loss at Norwich City.

Everton are now looking for their sixth permanent manager as many years, with Duncan Ferguson currently holding the reins in a caretaker capacity.

It's hardly a surprise Rooney is in the reckoning.

He grew up as an Everton and came through the club's academy. During two spells at the Blues, England's all-time record goalscorer bagged 28 goals.

It's not just his links to Merseyside that have resulted in him being considered for the job.

He's carrying out an outstanding job as Derby County manager.

The Rams are in dire straits, having entered administration and been hit was a 21-point deduction by the EFL.

Without that deduction, Derby would be 11th in the Championship table and seven points off the play-offs.

What’s been said

It's reported by The Telegraph that Everton are keen to interview Rooney for the role.

However, Derby's administrators Quantuma have insisted no request has been made - and they will need to be approached first.

In a statement to Derbyshire Live, a spokesperson said: We are not aware of any approach from Everton regarding Wayne Rooney.

“If they (Everton) were to make an approach, the administrators would expect that approach to be made to them in the first instance.”