Chapter 6: A Mother’s Heart
Wayne Rooney, former world-class footballer, was in his hotel room in Southampton, on the phone with the sporting director of his new club, Derby County.
"I am telling you, Phillip, this kid is the future. I need him. No, we need him," Wayne said, his voice full of conviction.
Phillip Cockerill, the interim sporting director, sighed on the other end of the line. "Wayne, I've asked around about your wonder kid. Not to even mention his age—he's known as a hothead."
Wayne's response was immediate, almost dismissive. "He's just passionate. You wouldn't understand. You were never a professional player," he said, a sharp edge to his voice.
Phillip's jaw tightened. He had always dreamed of being a professional footballer, but that dream had slipped through his fingers. He'd been left behind, relegated to a position where he wasn't quite in control. "Even still, Wayne," he said, forcing his tone to remain calm. "To offer a kid a professional contract is too risky, and you know the state of the club right now. We can't afford to take risks."
Wayne's patience was wearing thin. "With all due respect, Phillip, I don't need your help signing him. When I agreed to coach Derby, I got full authority over the players I want to bring in. And given your situation, do I really need your permission?"
Phillip could feel the anger rising inside him. It was true, Wayne had full authority, but his comment about Phillip's situation stung more than it should have. He was just the interim sporting director, a role that was up for debate as the club tried to sort out its financial mess.
"Be that as it may," Phillip said, trying to keep his voice steady, "while you have the right to introduce and reject any player, you still need the approval of the sporting director to finalize bringing in a new player. Or, in this case, the interim sporting director, as you so kindly point out."
Wayne paused for a moment, letting the silence stretch between them. Then, with a more measured tone, he spoke again. "Okay, see, I know we got off on the wrong foot. But I'm serious here. This kid has the potential to reach the top. And imagine if you were the one who introduced a new phenomenon to the club. Wouldn't that help you land the permanent position you've been after?"