Wayne Rooney has dismissed suggestions that taking over as head coach of Major League Soccer side DC United is a “backwards step” in his managerial career.

The 36-year-old has made a swift return to management with his former club, having left Derby last month following a tumultuous spell where his own stock improved despite chaos off the pitch at the Rams.

The former England, Manchester United and Everton striker has wasted no time getting back into the game, although he will have to wait for completion of a visa application to formally take up his new role back in Washington, where he...