Skip to content

Darren Fletcher believes Wayne Rooney's Everton switch is a 'match made in heaven'

Image: Wayne Rooney scored on his Everton return following a summer move from Manchester United

Stoke midfielder Darren Fletcher believes Wayne Rooney's return to Everton is a "match made in heaven" and backed his former Manchester United team-mate to prove he is still a top-class player.

After 13 record-breaking years at Old Trafford, the 31-year-old's frustrations of wanting regular football saw the forward make a dream return to Goodison Park.

Rooney penned a two-year deal at Everton and scored his first goal back at his boyhood club on Saturday, when Ronald Koeman's Blues opened their Premier League campaign with a 1-0 victory against Stoke.

Fletcher, making his Potters debut after joining from West Brom, was a frustrated opponent at Goodison Park, but could not fail to be impressed by his close friend's impact.

Everton's English striker Wayne Rooney celebrates scoring the opening goal during the English Premier League football match between Everton and Stoke City
Image: Fletcher thinks Rooney's return to Everton is a "fantastic" move for him

"I thought it was a fantastic move for him," the ex-United midfielder said.

"He's coming to a club he supports. Location-wise it's not a big move for his family. He's coming home, really.

Live MNF

"That will motivate him as well, not that he needs motivating, but if there was that little dip then this will motivate him because of how much the club means to him.

Also See:

"If he went to another club, I'm sure he would give 100 per cent because I know Wayne. But there is something extra special when you're at your boyhood team and you support the club.

"He will be delighted to be back here and scoring on his (Premier League) debut. He's a leader now, he will be setting an example to everyone.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Watch Rooney's winner against Stoke

"What a fantastic signing for Everton. It just seemed to fit didn't it? It was a match made in heaven for him at this stage of his career and with what he is trying to achieve as he is still a top-class player.

"It makes sense for everyone and you see that today. He could have gone to a league where he could have played in second gear but you can't do that in the Premier League.

"These Everton fans are very demanding so he has challenged himself which is fantastic, it's great. I hope he has a fantastic season - and finishes below Stoke."

Around Sky