TheCable

Wayne Rooney will be back in an Everton squad after the Manchester United captain agreed to play in Duncan Ferguson’s testimonial.

The 29-year-old striker has agreed to play for Everton in a testimonial for his former team-mate against Villarreal at Goodison Park on August 2.

Rooney, a product of the Everton academy, has not always been warmly welcomed at his old ground since moving to United in 2004. He added salt to an already smarting wound when he kissed United badge in front of Everton fans in 2008.

But Rooney, currently out in the United States on the Red Devils’ preseason tour, will turn out to honour his “hero”.

“As a young lad growing up in Croxteth, Duncan Ferguson was a hero of mine,” Rooney told Everton’s website.

“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.

“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.”

And Ferguson spoke of his delight at having Rooney on board for the friendly.

“I’m absolutely delighted that the wee man has agreed to play in the game,” Ferguson, who has not ruled out playing in the contest himself, 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.”