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WAYNE ROONEY revealed he is proud of his Derby players - and wants to STAY and rebuild as long as a takeover happens.

The Rams' relegation to League One was confirmed after losing 1-0 at QPR, with Reading's point against Swansea having trailed 4-1 enough to send Derby down.

Wayne Rooney said he wants to stay on as Derby boss after relegation - as long as a takeover happens
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Wayne Rooney said he wants to stay on as Derby boss after relegation - as long as a takeover happensCredit: Rex

Despite feeling disappointed and sad that the inevitable day has come, Rooney is still looking at the positives.

He praised the fans for their unwavering support all season in the face of severe adversity - with Derby having 21 points deducted for financial irregularity and entering administration in September.

Asked how he felt following relegation, : "Proud. It's a strange feeling because everything we've been through as a group, the development of the team has been really positive.

"I've never seen a team get relegated and have a reaction from the fans like that. I thought it was incredible.

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"Of course disappointed, sad, upset but proud."

Naturally, Rooney was asked about his future at Pride Park following relegation, with the 36-year-old linked to the vacant manager's job at Burnley.

But Wazza committed himself to Derby and stated he wants to rebuild the club - as long as a takeover happens to make such a goal a possibility.

"The takeover has to happen, if it doesn't happen then I really fear for the club - where the club will end up.

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"Obviously the club's future is in doubt if it doesn't happen, my future is in doubt if it doesn't happen.

"If it happens I want to rebuild the club. This is a special club, a big club, we're all proud to be here. I want to bring those special days back.

"I feel for the players, we've picked up 52 points and we would be safe in normal circumstances."

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