Everton forward Wayne Rooney has suggested that it was difficult to solely focus on football ahead of his first appearance at Goodison Park since re-signing for the Toffees.
Earlier this summer, Rooney returned to Everton after a 13-year stay at Manchester United, and he started in his new side's Europa League third qualifying round win over MFK Ruzomberok.
The Toffees struggled to break down their stubborn Slovakian opponents, with Leighton Baines netting the only goal of the game, but given the occasion and the Merseyside outfit keeping a clean sheet, Rooney was pleased with how the night unfolded.
The 31-year-old is quoted by Sky Sports News as saying: "It's obviously great to be at Goodison wearing the blue shirt, it was a great feeling, but it was an important game for us so I had to put my emotions to one side. I've done that now and can get down to focusing more on the football.
"It's very early on in the season. I know we can play better but it's important to win and get the clean sheet. Getting the goal gave us a sense of relief and control of the game."
Rooney will expect to feature again when Everton travel to Slovakia for the second leg next week.
Darren Plant
