Wayne Rooney has revealed that he is relishing the pressure that will accompany him during his time as Birmingham City manager.
Under previous incumbent John Eustace, Blues have enjoyed an excellent start to the season, accumulating 18 points from their 11 matches in the Championship.
However, despite back-to-back wins over Huddersfield Town and West Bromwich Albion, Eustace was removed from his role on Monday, with the club citing differences in their strategy and ambition going forward.
Rooney, who only left his role at DC United last week, has been appointed as his replacement with the 37-year-old tasked with spearheading a new era at St Andrew's.
The decision of Birmingham's owners to part ways with Eustace and replace him with one of English football's most high-profile figures will inevitably result in extra scrutiny.
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Nevertheless, speaking to reporters at a press conference on Thursday, the Manchester United legend says that is excited for the task ahead, aware that promotion to the Premier League has to be the long-term target.
Rooney said, as quoted by Birmingham Live: "For myself to get into English football is great, I have had opportunities at other clubs in the last six weeks to do that.
"Seeing where Birmingham want to get to excited me. Everything we spoke about was very similar. It was a really easy decision once I spoke to them."
He added: "I love the fact we are in a good position, the challenge, that is something I have dealt with since I was a young kid.
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"What it might be new to is some of the players, it's my job I get them ready for that and to go out and be successful. We have got tough games coming up which I can't wait to go into. Get the mentality and the mindset right to be consistent."
Rooney arrives in the West Midlands on the back of winning just 14 of his 53 matches in charge of DC United, while he began his managerial career in testing circumstances at Derby County during a time when the club were hindered by transfer embargoes and points deductions.
In sharp contrast, Birmingham sit in sixth position in the Championship table ahead of their fixture at in-form Middlesbrough on October 21.
CEO Garry Cook added at the press conference that, while Birmingham will be active in the January transfer window, they have to ensure that they fulfil all EFL criteria with regards to profit and sustainability.
Darren Plant
