Rooney hits back at Brady's work ethic criticism

Wayne Rooney has branded Tom Brady's criticism of his work ethic as Birmingham City manager as "very unfair", following his controversial 83-day tenure that ended in January 2024.

The former England captain made these remarks during the debut episode of The Wayne Rooney Show, a new twice-weekly podcast launching on BBC Sounds, YouTube and iPlayer.

Brady's Controversial Comments

Brady, who became a minority owner of Birmingham City in August 2023, questioned Rooney's dedication during a behind-the-scenes documentary. In one notable scene after visiting the training ground, the NFL legend told colleagues: "I'm a little worried about our head coach's work ethic."

"I was really disappointed with the comment," Rooney responded. "Tom came in once - the day before a match when training sessions are naturally lighter. I don't think he fully understands football, though he certainly understands hard work."

Football vs NFL Culture Clash

Rooney highlighted fundamental differences between football and American football: "The NFL operates for three months a year. Football is different - players need proper rest. His criticism was very unfair."

Birmingham's Turbulent Season

The Championship club underwent significant changes after Knighthead Capital Management's June 2023 takeover:

• Brady joined as minority owner in August 2023
• John Eustace was controversially replaced by Rooney in October with the team sixth
• Rooney lasted just 15 matches before being sacked with Birmingham 20th
• Tony Mowbray's subsequent appointment was cut short by health issues
• The club suffered relegation after using seven managers in 10 months

"When I arrived, Birmingham was in complete disarray," Rooney admitted. "The squad simply wasn't equipped to progress."

Birmingham's Remarkable Turnaround

The club has since rebounded impressively in League One:

• Invested a record £30m in summer 2024 transfers
• Set a new Football League points record (111) in 2024-25
• Won promotion back to the Championship at first attempt

Rooney acknowledged the improvement: "I respect Tom Brady immensely - he's among the greatest athletes ever. Birmingham appear to have turned things around, making the necessary squad changes."

The Wayne Rooney Show premieres August 15 at 06:00 BST on BBC Sport YouTube and iPlayer, with audio available on BBC Sounds.