Rooney, who was named captain on the day, curled an inch-perfect free kick onto the path of Jack Marriott to stab home with his right foot just before half-time.

The former Manchester United and D.C. United star was making his first appearance at the club since returning to English football from the MLS club last summer.

Elliot Simoes equalised for the visitors on 50 minutes but Martyn Waghorn ensured the points would stay with Derby seven minutes later with Rooney key in the build up.