Rooney Tunes

...there is plenty of reason for it.

Many fans have got their eye on the Northern Irish striker after he was given a professional contract at the beginning of this season. Following an impressive pre-season, including a hat-trick against Tavistock, fans are increasingly aware of Rooney's potential, and would like to know whether he can make the step up to Sky Bet League 2 football.

After Rooney scored an incredible five goals in a 12-0 win against Vospers Oak Villa for Argyle's Professional Development side on Saturday, manager Derek Adams was asked about Rooney’s position at the club. The manager responded by saying that his future is as yet undecided, and noted the gulf in difficulty of the football Rooney is currently engaged in and that of League 2. Despite this, Adams clearly understands that Rooney is a growing talent and is keeping his eye on him. 

"I want to take my time," said Adams. "I haven’t really decided what his next move might be. He might move up to the bench, maybe a loan move out to a conference club, but it might be that he pushes his way into the first team. We’ll just assess as we go along; he’s got a long road to go.

"The games in the Peninsula Leagues are helping him, but the standard we’re playing at in the first team is totally different. The footballing people understand where the progression is and where the next move is.

"He’s only just come out of under-18 football and he’s moving along nicely. He’s working hard."