Rooney left ’embarrassed’ by heavy Plymouth defeats

Wayne Rooney has been left “embarrassed” by Plymouth Argyle's recent performances after conceding 10 goals in two games.

Plymouth are winless in four Championship games, having dropped just one place above the relegation zone in that run.

However, their goal difference has taken a big hit in the past week, following a 6-1 defeat to Norwich City and a 4-0 loss to Bristol City.

Rooney, who was appointed head coach in May, is reportedly under pressure and Manchester United's record goalscorer knows things need to improve quickly.

“I've been criticized my whole career since I was a 16-year-old boy,” Rooney said, as reported by BBC Sport.

“What you always want are weapons to fight back with – right now we don't have any.

“So we have to take it upon ourselves and hope we can get through this because the last two games have undoubtedly been the toughest and toughest week of my managerial career.

“So I have to find a way to get through it, but I also have to get that message across to the players to make sure I lift them up.

“It is now at a point where the players have to understand that they have to give more and they have to show more character, more fight and more desire.

'It was very difficult to walk across it [to the fans] And you don't have to be ashamed.”

Plymouth have the lowest expected goals (xG) in the Championship this season, at just 12.7. However, they scored 18 times.

It's a bad mix for Rooney though, as Argyle have the highest xG against, with their 35.8 xGA five ahead of second-worst Stoke City (30.8), while Plymouth also have the most goals (38) and shots (324, 40 more than any other side).

“Ultimately it's my responsibility. I take full responsibility for the results, I choose the team, I choose the tactics,” Rooney added.

“But I think the players are now at a stage where they need to be told, not only in the dressing room, but also from outside, that they need to show more.

“We have a duty to this football club to show pride, respect, passion and fight for this club. I don't think that has been there in the last two games.”