Birmingham City promotion odds change after Wayne Rooney confirmed as manager
Birmingham City's odds of promotion to the Premier League have lengthened following the announcement of Wayne Rooney as their new manager.
The Blues parted ways with John Eustace earlier in the week, before announcing the Manchester United legend as his successor after he left his role at DC United just a few days ago. Speaking in a statement released by the club, Rooney outlined how 'excited' he is about the opportunity at St Andrew's, having previously managed in the Championship with Derby County.
"I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City Football Club at such an exciting time," he said. "It is very clear that they have a plan and are committed to realising their ambition for the club. We are fully aligned on what is expected.
"I have been building my managerial career, putting myself in challenging environments, to get me ready for this opportunity. It's a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can't wait to get started."
Blues are currently sixth in the Championship table at the time of Rooney's arrival, following back-to-back wins against West Bromwich Albion and Huddersfield Town. The club have not been in the top flight of English football for 12 years.
Having previously been 15/2 to win promotion, Blues have drifted to 20/1 on Betfair, as the bookmakers respond to Rooney's arrival. Betfair spokesperson Sam Rosbottom said: “Birmingham’s odds on promotion have drifted to 20/1 from 15/2 following the appointment of Man United and England legend Wayne Rooney, who replaced John Eustace on Wednesday. The Blues, who are sixth after 11 Championship games, have the same odds at 20/1 to be relegated this season.”
Championship promotion odds
Leicester 1/5
Ipswich 4/5
Leeds 11/10
Southampton 16/5
Middlesbrough 5/1
Sunderland, West Brom, Norwich 6/1
Coventry 15/2
Hull, Watford 10/1
Preston, Swansea 11/1
Stoke, Millwall, Bristol City 13/1
Blackburn 14/1
Cardiff 16/1
Birmingham 20/1 (were 15/2 before Rooney’s appointment)
