When it came out during the week that Manchester United had agreed a deal with Everton for Romelu Lukaku, everyone immediately assumed that Wayne Rooney would be heading the other way.
The 31-year-old began his career with the Toffees, bursting onto the scene as a 16-year-old when he scored a last-minute winner against Arsenal. He spent two years at Goodison before Alex Ferguson and United came calling.
? | Once a Blue... #WelcomeHomeWayne pic.twitter.com/PAkv1qeBsY
— Everton (@Everton) July 9, 2017
During last season, he became United's top goalscorer in history, surpassing Bobby Charlton's record, ending his time at Old Trafford on 253 goals.
With the likes of Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford nailing down starting places, Rooney found himself down the pecking order. Enter Everton.
The club today announced the return of Rooney on a two-year deal.
📝 | We're delighted to bring @WayneRooney back to #EFC! He signs from @ManUtd, 2 year deal. #WelcomeHomeWayne
👉🏻 https://t.co/mHFaK7eQA9 pic.twitter.com/8N5nYvnezU— Everton (@Everton) July 9, 2017
Everton boss Ronald Koeman spoke to the Merseysiders' website about how pleased he was that the club had secured Rooney.
Wayne has shown me that ambition that we need and that winning mentality – he knows how to win titles and I’m really happy he’s decided to come home.
He loves Everton and he was desperate to come back. He is still only 31 and I don’t have any doubts about his qualities. It’s fantastic he’s here.
At United, Rooney racked up a Champions League, Europa League, five Premier League titles, one FA Cup and three League Cups.
He also spoke to EvertonFC.com:
It’s a great feeling to be back. I’m excited, I cannot wait to meet the lads, get on the training pitch and then get on the pitch to play. I’m ecstatic – I just cannot wait to get back playing.
Once I knew Everton were interested and wanted to sign me, I made my agent aware, ‘Go and speak to them, let’s make it happen. That’s where I want to go.
I’m coming back because I feel the Club can move forward and be successful. I want to be part of it.
