Rooney wrote in a club statement that he has been following the ownership of Derby County.

I met with the administrators to let them know that I was leaving the club. They tried to change my mind, but it was not possible.

I have enjoyed my time at the club, even though it has been a roller coaster of emotions.

The events that have happened over the last eighteen months have made me feel that the club needs to be led by someone with fresh energy. I will remember my time at Derby with great pride and affection and would like to thank all my staff, players and the fans. I will always remember you and hope to see you again soon.

Chris Kirchner withdrew his bid to buy the club.

Rooney said that the club still has interested parties who want to take over. Derby County is a great club with a great history and fans. I wish you good luck for the future.

The administrators of Derby were 888-609- 888-609- 888-609- 888-609-

The administrators were disappointed that Wayne decided to leave the club but were trying to convince him to stay. We admire the way in which he has led the team, the club and the community through various off-field issues, and we are grateful to him for his excellent work in the face of challenging on-field circumstances.

Staff and supporters will be frustrated and disappointed by this news, but we wish him, his wife Coleen and their four boys every success in the future and we are sure they will always be welcome back.

The need to conclude a sale of the business and assets of the Club is urgent and the joint administrators wish to assure that positive discussions will not be affected by Wayne's departure.

Despite the turmoil off the pitch and a 21- point deduction, the former England and Manchester United captain guided Derby to an impressive run of form.

It has been a tough start to Rooney's managerial career after he decided to cut his Major League Soccer playing days short at D.C.

Rooney said he would stay at the club if new owners took over.