Duncan Ferguson praises Wayne Rooney for braving Everton return in testimonial

By Sam McEvoy, Reporter | 01 August 2015

Duncan Ferguson praises Wayne Rooney for deciding to don the Everton strip in the Scot's testimonial match against Villarreal on Sunday.

Duncan Ferguson has praised Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney for agreeing to don an Everton strip for the Scot's testimonial match against Villarreal on Sunday.

It will be the first time since 2004 that Rooney has worn the blue strip, after the forward forced through a move to United by handing in a transfer request, leaving Goodison Park under a cloud.

However, Ferguson maintains that the 29-year-old will receive a good reception on Sunday.

"It was a long time ago and, as far as I'm concerned, he is one of us and I'm sure he'll get a good reception," Ferguson told reporters.

"I did consider one or two others but Wayne is still playing and I wanted him back for that personal touch. I asked Wayne and he was delighted. We probably drifted away from each other over the last few years because you move on and that happens.

"But I wanted him to play in this game and I am chuffed to bits that he accepted. I played with Wayne when he made his debut at Wrexham and scored twice. We hit it off on the pitch from the start – he did what I told him to do but about three weeks later he was telling me what to do!"

The Red Devils skipper made over 60 appearances for Everton during the two years he spent at the club, scoring 15 goals.