Everton star Wayne Rooney said becoming only the second person to score 200 Premier League goals when he netted in the 1-1 draw with Manchester City on Monday was a sweet moment.
The 31-year-old, who joined former England and Newcastle United great Alan Shearer in reaching the 200-goal landmark, added he was sure fans from his former club Manchester United would have enjoyed it too.
Rooney rejoined Everton, the club where he made his name as a teenager, from United in the close season after he became a peripheral figure there under Jose Mourinho.
« It was nice, » Rooney, who will do well to pass Shearer’s mark of 260, told Sky Sports.
« To do it today in such an important game for us, with tough games coming up, it was a sweet moment and I am sure the red half of Manchester will have enjoyed it as well. »
Rooney, who also scored in their opening 1-0 win over Stoke City, said that people shouldn’t be surprised he covered more ground in the match than his team-mates.
« It is not bad for someone who is not fit anymore and can’t get about the pitch! » grinned Rooney.
« I have always put a shift in for the team and tonight is no different. »
Rooney’s lack of match time with United last season cost him his place in the England squad, but with one being named later this week and with his early-season form, a recall could be on the cards.
« I am focusing on Everton, » said Rooney when asked about his chances of a call-up.
« I am sure I will speak to England manager Gareth Southgate over the next few days and we will see what happens. »
Everton manager Ronald Koeman — who has spent heavily in the close season — said he had expected Rooney’s early sparkle.
« I am not surprised about Wayne Rooney, » Koeman told Sky Sports.
« I know how eager he was to come back to Everton. We are really happy that he is back. »
