Derby County have been officially relegated from the Championship.

The Rams were always fighting a losing battle in 2021/22 after they were deducted an enormous 21 points, which was imposed for entering administration and breaching financial rules.

Derby's fate was sealed on Monday afternoon after they were defeated 1-0 away at Queens Park Rangers and Reading picked up a point in their hugely entertaining 4-4 draw versus Sheffield United.

The fact Wayne Rooney's side were able to avoid being officially relegated until mid-April is quite an achievement by both the manager and players

If they had not received a points deduction, Derby would be sitting on 52 points and with no real fears of relegation.

That's why fans are still mighty proud of the team and a few hours after the loss at QPR, Rooney decided to give a brilliant speech in front of some of them who had gathered at the club's Moor Farm training ground.

Check out the footage below and be warned, there were a few expletives used by the former Manchester United striker...

Video: Rooney's emotional speech to Derby fans after relegation

Rooney said: "We're grateful for the support you've shown us all season. It's been f***ing tough, been hard. Difficult moments for us, for you (fans) especially. But we've tried our best, we've given everything we can. It's unfortunate we've been relegated but now we'll plan to make sure this club comes back."

He's an absolute legend is Wazza.

By the sounds of it, Rooney is incredibly committed to Derby, who are hopeful of soon securing new ownership in the form of American businessman Chris Kirchner.

Rooney discussed the importance of the takeover following the QPR defeat and stated that he fears for the future of the club if it doesn't happen soon.

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 18: Wayne Rooney, Manager of Derby County reacts to defeat after the Sky Bet Championship match between Queens Park Rangers and Derby County at The Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium on April 18, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

He said: "The takeover has to happen. If it doesn't I fear for the club. It has to (go through). If it happens, I want to rebuild the club. This is a special club, I've said all along. I want to try and bring the happy days back.

"In some ways we can draw a line under everything that has happened and really start the rebirth of this club. The quicker the takeover happens the quicker we can develop the squad.

"I feel for the players. We've taken 52 points and in normal circumstances we'd be safe by now. We've paid the price for what the previous owner has left behind.

"It's no-one's fault - not mine, not the staff, not the players' - other than the previous owner. We're paying the price and I'm sure it's a sad day for Mel (Morris) too because I know he's a Derby fan. I'm sure he'll be very disappointed."