Wayne Rooney loves a bit of European action.
Having lifted both the Champions League and Europa League trophies with Manchester United, Rooney is hoping to bring his European experience to Everton and boost their chances of qualifying for the Europa League group stage.
During Rooney’s first spell with the Toffees, he didn’t get the chance to represent the club on a European stage, but he will get the opportunity to do so on Thursday evening.
Goodison Park will host Everton’s Europa League third-round qualifier with Slovakian side MFK Ruzomberok and when Rooney takes to the same pitch on which he made his senior debut 15 years ago next month, he will fulfil a dream.
“Something I always wanted to do was play in Europe with Everton,” Rooney said, via the Liverpool Echo.
“I was a bit disappointed not to do that before but now I’ll have a chance. Obviously I won the trophy last year so I’m hoping as a club we can go far and, you never know, try to win it. It would be even better.
“The first game back will be an emotional day for me and I’m looking forward to it. Overall, I’m looking forward to the season, hopefully getting back playing regularly and trying to help this club move forward.”
The last time Rooney set foot on the Goodison Park surface as an Everton player, it was 2004, and he won’t take the occasion for granted when he returns to the home of his boyhood club on Thursday evening.
“You always get that feeling when you’re walking out the tunnel so to actually do it again in an Everton shirt will be a special moment for me,” the former Manchester United forward said.
“It’s always been a special place to come and play, even when I’ve been on the opposing side.
“It’s been a positive start back here. It’s great that we got so many players in early as we’ve been able to work together for nearly a month before the first game, get to know each other and how everyone plays.
“It’s great to see and great to be a part of.”
