Rooney: I'm not coming into a retirement home, I'm here to win

Wayne Rooney says he’s not gone to Everton to wind down his career in a “retirement home.” 

Rooney, 32 in October, has re-joined his former club on a two-year deal after spending 13 years with Manchester United. 

At his presentation on Monday, he insisted he still has a lot to offer despite many having written him off in recent seasons. 

“I’m not coming into a retirement home,” he said. “I want to play, win and be successful. 

“I feel good. I’m not fit at the moment but that will build up in the next few weeks. I’m excited. I think it’s the right time and I’m ready for it.”

Of his final season at United, Rooney said admitted it was “frustrating” and added: “I need to play. I want to play football.”

And he hopes that his performances at Goodison Park will help him earn his place back in Gareth Southgate’s England side -- even though he stressed his club comes first. 

“I’m focused on Everton, playing well for Everton,” he said. “If I do that Gareth Southgate will have a decision to make, whether he puts me back in the squad or not. 

“Hopefully my performances are good enough for Everton and he won’t be able to ignore me if they are.”