02 January 2024 , 13:32
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For a so-called 'Golden Generation' on the pitch, England's class of mid-2000s superstars haven't exactly been able to showcase the same set of skills when it comes to management. Wayne Rooney became the latest ex-Three Lions star to be sacked from his role as boss of Championship side Birmingham City, reaching just 15 games in charge of the Blues.
His appointment at St Andrews wasn't the most popular with supporters either, coming into the job following the surprise dismissal of former boss John Eustace - who had the club sat in a play-off spot despite limited resources. But, given his glowing playing reputation and new influence of minority owner Tom Brady, Rooney was chosen as a shock replacement to bring a big name into the club.
But, like with Rooney's ex-England teammates Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard or even Gary Neville, this was another name vs ability scenario that hasn't quite worked out the way owners thought it automatically would and subsequently repositions England's former all-time record goalscorer on a list he probably won't like to be on. But which of England's 'Golden Generation' managers do you think has been the worst?
Despite initial success at Rangers, Gerrard's struggles at Aston Villa saw him take a surprise move to Saudi Arabia, where his Al-Ettifaq side are currently struggling for form despite spending big in the summer, while his long-time midfield partner Lampard is again out of work after having left Chelsea for a second time following his sacking at Everton last season.
Who could forget Neville's short-term reign at Spanish giants Valencia? The popular pundit spent just over three months in charge before his high-profile dismissal, whereas brother Phil has taken to Major League Soccer following his controversial stint as Lionesses boss, previously with Inter Miami and now Portland Timbers.
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Then there is Scott Parker and Jonathan Woodgate who have both been in charge at Bournemouth, with the former going on to have a short stint in Belgium at Club Brugge. Sol Campbell is the final option on our list, who has managed mainly at lower-league level with both Macclesfield Town and Southend United but has been out of work since 2020.
Following on from Rooney's sacking, you can have your say on who you think has been the worst manager so far from England's set of stars, using the poll in this article below. Whilst you're there, you can also sign-up to the Mirror's EFL 72 newsletter, which provides daily updates from the Championship, League One and League Two.
EFL 72 says:Given the circumstances, Wayne Rooney managing in the Championship seemed like a project destined to fail before it had even started. The Blues were emerging as an early season surprise under previous boss John Eustace, who was working wonders with a limited set of resources for the level. However, the club decided to go for that big-name appointment instead of sticking with a promising coach and have since paid the price as they have slid towards the relegation zone.
Have Your Say! Once you have voted in our poll, tell us what you think in the comments section by clicking here.