Wayne Rooney to return to Everton for Duncan Ferguson testimonial

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney will return to Everton to play in a testimonial match for Duncan Ferguson on August 2.

Rooney’s gesture may appease some of his critics among the Everton support, who turned against the striker when he moved to Old Trafford in August 2004.

The 29-year-old, who grew up in the Croxteth area of Liverpool and was a boyhood Everton fan, came through the Goodison Park youth system.

Rooney idolised the Scotsman when he was a youngster, and he is delighted to be taking part in the benefit match against Spanish club Villarreal.

"As a young lad growing up in Croxteth, Duncan Ferguson was a hero of mine, as a young player at the club he was an inspiration and when I broke into the first team he helped and looked after me," Rooney said.

"I cannot think of a better way to thank Dunc for all he did for me than turning out in his fully deserved testimonial match.

"Had he not asked me to play I would have gone and supported him on the day as I am sure most other Evertonians will."

Ferguson is now part of the coaching staff at Everton, where he started working with the first-team in February 2014.

And the 43-year-old, who spent 10 years as a Toffees player either side of a short spell with Newcastle, is thrilled Rooney will be involved in his big day.

"I'm absolutely delighted that the wee man has agreed to play in the game," the Scotsman said.

"Everybody knows that we go way back. I knew him as a kid, he's a top man and I'm proud as his friend that he's fulfilled the potential we always knew was there.

"Wayne's a world-class player and I'm genuinely thrilled that he will play on the day, just as I'm so grateful to the Club for putting on this game."