“I don’t take it personally”

Wayne Rooney insists he does not take the criticism personally amid growing frustration among Plymouth Argyle fans over the team’s recent poor run of results.

The pressure has mounted on Rooney with the former England captain’s side currently bottom of the Championship table following a 2-0 defeat at Oxford United on Sunday.

Argyle have lost six and drawn three of their last nine games, prompting a section of fans to call for Rooney to be sent off during the Oxford game.

Rooney’s reaction to today’s defeat.

In collaboration with @TheTurmericCo.

— Plymouth Argyle FC (@Argyle) December 29, 2024

However, the 39-year-old insists the criticism does not affect him and believes he can turn the team’s fortunes around.

“When you’re losing games like we’re losing, that frustration is there, so I understand that and I don’t take it personally,” Rooney told the BBC.

“I think criticism is normal with the results we are experiencing.

“You have to feel you can turn it around. I’ll go back, watch the game again, assess the game and prepare for Bristol (City).

“I understand (the fans’ reaction), I’ve been there myself when I was young and I’ve been there as a fan when you want to see your team win.”

Rooney was appointed Plymouth manager in May, following the sacking of Ian Foster, but the former Manchester United player has endured a difficult time in England’s second tier this term.

The Pilgrims have won just four Championship games all season, drawing six, losing 13 and conceding 51 league goals in the process.

Asked if he felt secure in his job, Rooney said: “That’s a question for the board. I understand how football works, so all I can do is keep trying to work as hard as I can .

“For all of us, we’re trying to do the right things and help ourselves win games – unfortunately that hasn’t been the case in recent weeks.”