Rooney calls time on his England career

Wednesday, 23 August, 2017 101comments  |  Jump to most recent

Wayne Rooney has announced his retirement from international football with immediate effect, expressing his desire to concentrate on winning trophies with Everton.

The 31-year-old became England's all-time record goalscorer and has been on the fringes of Gareth Southgate's team since as the England manager looks to a future without him.

Having seen the impact Rooney has made at Everton so far since returning to Goodison Park, Southgate was considering recalling him to the international fold but the forward has taken the decision out of his hands.

"It was great that Gareth Southgate called me this week to tell me he wanted me back in the England squad for the upcoming matches. I really appreciated that," Rooney said.

"However, having already thought long and hard, I told Gareth that I had now decided to retire for good from international football.

"It is a really tough decision and one I have discussed with my family, my manager at Everton and those closest to me.

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"Playing for England has always been special to me. Every time I was selected as a player or captain was a real privilege and I thank everyone who helped me. But I believe now is the time to bow out.

"Leaving Manchester United was a tough call but I know I made the right decision in coming home to Everton. Now I want to focus all my energies on helping them be successful. I will always remain a passionate England fan.

"One of my very few regrets is not to have been part of a successful England tournament side.

"Hopefully the exciting players Gareth is bringing through can take that ambition further and I hope everyone will get behind the team.

"One day the dream will come true and I look forward to being there as a fan - or in any capacity."

Full details: ToffeeWeb Match page



Reader Comments (101)

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Colin Glassar
1 Posted 23/08/2017 at 13:03:05
Rooney retires from England!!!
Jay Wood
2 Posted 23/08/2017 at 13:10:14
Great news for us, Colin.
Jon Withey
3 Posted 23/08/2017 at 13:10:25
Good news for us!
Tony J Williams
4 Posted 23/08/2017 at 13:13:09
"It was great that Gareth Southgate called me this week to tell me he wanted me back in the England squad for the upcoming matches. I really appreciated that" – translates to

You can stick your effing team up your arse, etc.

Colin Glassar
5 Posted 23/08/2017 at 13:13:57
Yeah, I'm glad he's quit England, keeps him fresh for our games after int'l breaks.
Barry McNally
6 Posted 23/08/2017 at 13:42:08
So England's all-time leading goalscorer Wayne Rooney has retired from international football after turning down the chance to be part of the squad for next month's World Cup qualifiers.
Barry McNally
7 Posted 23/08/2017 at 13:44:02
Rooney's statement in full

It was great Gareth Southgate called me this week to tell me he wanted me back in the England squad for the upcoming matches. I really appreciated that.

However, having already thought long and hard, I told Gareth that I had now decided to retire for good from international football.

It is a really tough decision and one I have discussed with my family, my manager at Everton and those closest to me.

Playing for England has always been special to me. Every time I was selected as a player or captain was a real privilege and I thank everyone who helped me. But I believe now is the time to bow out.

Leaving Manchester United was a tough call but I know I made the right decision in coming home to Everton. Now I want to focus all my energies on helping them be successful.

I will always remain a passionate England fan. One of my very few regrets is not to have been part of a successful England tournament side. Hopefully the exciting players Gareth is bringing through can take that ambition further and I hope everyone will get behind the team.

One day the dream will come true and I look forward to being there as a fan - or in any capacity.

Eddie Dunn
8 Posted 23/08/2017 at 13:49:31
Great news for EFC and sensible from Rooney – he has a high mileage already and needs to pace it from now on. Also England are mediocre and Southgate is second rate.

Friendlies! A fucking waste of time and a chance for our players to either get tapped-up or injured.

Colin Glassar
9 Posted 23/08/2017 at 13:57:50
True Eddie, I'm glad none of our lads are French otherwise 'Agent P' would be all over them.

Just heard old Sven pleading with Rooney to reconsider. If he was still in charge of England, he'd still have Gerrard and Lampard getting in each other's way!

Tom Bowers
10 Posted 23/08/2017 at 14:08:30
I for one am glad that Wayne has told Southgate to ''get stuffed'' after leaving him out previously in favour of 35 year-old Defoe. Okay this is probably not Wayne's reasoning but he can now concentrate on helping Everton be a real contender again.
Brian Williams
11 Posted 23/08/2017 at 14:10:23
Am I the only Evertonian who thinks there may be a little bit of "fuck you" in Wayne's statement?

I hope it was intended :-)

Mick Quirke
12 Posted 23/08/2017 at 16:00:54
Showing real commitment to us. Wouldn't read anything else into it.
Michael Kenrick
Editorial Team
13 Posted 23/08/2017 at 16:02:05
Opps, sorr... had the comments turned off there.

This is great news. He's playing better already... and a brilliant job scoring our only goals in the Premier League so far, but still not quite up to the standard we need. That ballooned free-kick was really poor against City, and a poor pass almost cost us.

Come on, Wazza, you can do it for us!!!

Guy Hastings
14 Posted 23/08/2017 at 16:02:09
Brian 11 - more than a little bit, I suspect. What was it on Monday night, 'I'll be having a chat with Gareth Southgate this week', a bit of devil in his eye when he said it.
Drew Shortis
15 Posted 23/08/2017 at 16:03:40
Good decision. Allows him to concentrate on Everton this season, instead of WC qualifiers, most of which are rubbers. Cuts out all the speculation over whether or not he's going to be picked, who the captain will be etc... If he smashes it for us this season and England feel the need to call for him then there's no reason why he couldn't reverse his decision and go to the World Cup. Can't lose.
Ian Burns
16 Posted 23/08/2017 at 16:14:26
Right decision and pleased for EFC, we really need him firing this season and England call ups will not help his nor Everton's cause.

I just wish he would get the respect from the wider England fans he deserves - but I doubt it!

On another note, I noticed we had been linked to Raul Jiminez - this is one I really hope happens. He would take a great deal of the burden from Rooney's shoulders up front.

David Pearl
17 Posted 23/08/2017 at 16:22:16
Michael, if he isn't up to the standard that we need who else is? He's started well with us which will be helped by this decision.

I can't imagine Pirlo or Buffon being treated the way Southgate has with Wayne. Glad he told him where to go; maybe in the summer though he might have a change of heart. One last go at the greatest prize of all...

Coyb

Dennis Ng
18 Posted 23/08/2017 at 16:23:29
Thank you Rooney. Looking forward to your player-coach career with us.
Gordon White
19 Posted 23/08/2017 at 16:24:42
Goods news for us. I'm glad he's told that second rate manager to stick it where the sun doesn't shine. In a polite way.
Daniel Lim
20 Posted 23/08/2017 at 16:47:34
Macca, are you listening?
Peter Cummings
21 Posted 23/08/2017 at 16:54:42
Sensible decision to keep away from an England camp that is still home to the southern bunch of 'Luvvie' millionaires who monopolise national games with no real interest in the country's tradition or international success, as evidenced by their sick note excuses for missing warm up 'friendlies'.
Ian Bennett
22 Posted 23/08/2017 at 17:05:23
A wise move to give his body some rest in the international breaks. Good to see one of the squad put the club first and fight for some silverware (cough McCarthy, Barkley...).
Christine Foster
23 Posted 23/08/2017 at 17:09:16
You have to say its a sensible decision for Rooney and for Everton, although he has started well and has a desperate desire to succeed for the club, he needs a big man to take the pressure off him and for him to gain fitness, sharpness and really make a difference that we all want.
It will happen but he is right to keep his focus and determination on personal improvement for the club. If anyone doubted he wanted Everton to win a trophy I think this decision puts it to bed. You read all the fans comments on the Guardian site regarding his retirement and the abuse is appalling, which is a perverted sign of respect from those with less brain cells than their IQ.
He is on track for sticking two fingers up at all the doubters and negative slurs.. I hope he does, I think he will but its early days and a lot will depend on who he plays alongside.
Jamie Crowley
24 Posted 23/08/2017 at 17:11:24
With a trip to Split and a very busy Everton schedule, the cynic in me says he's doing this now to avoid a bunch of meaningless travel, but may return come next summer for the World Cup if called upon?

Hugh Jenkins
25 Posted 23/08/2017 at 17:12:09
Brian (11) - far from it.

Having been snubbed by Southgate, he has turned back the clock this season thus far and has therefore had a recall.

The beauty of that is, as far as the history books will be concerned, is that Wayne has not been dropped and never selected thereafter. He has chosen to retire. It puts an entirely different slant on the whole episode and puts Wayne back in control of his international career.

So there is very a much a return of the original snub he must feel he received from Southgate.

Brent Stephens
26 Posted 23/08/2017 at 17:26:54
One day the [England] dream will come true and I look forward to being there as a fan - or in any capacity".

Hmm. Manager or steward?,"One day the [England] dream will come true and I look forward to being there as a fan - or in any capacity".

Hmm. Manager or steward?,,,1,17:19:28,,90.208.7.203,ok,10701,08/23/2017 17:19:28,Brent,reader,, 842659,35375,toffeeweb,23/08/2017,John G Davies,jdavies150@outlook.com,*Sorry Brent.

That first one won the best joke competition I believe.

They should get themselves down here for a week listen to proper comedians.


,*Sorry Brent.

That first one won the best joke competition I believe.

They should get themselves down here for a week listen to proper comedians.


,,,1,17:22:23,,213.205.252.191,ok,19648,08/23/2017 17:22:23,JohnDavies,reader,, 842660,35378,toffeeweb,23/08/2017,Don Alexander,donfraser1983@hotmail.co.uk,"Having been one who was against us re-signing Wayne I'm pleased to be proved wrong so far. His play (and physical shape) has surprised me and I can live with the apparent fact he's not going to buzz for a whole game. Any player with even half a brain should learn bucket-loads off him, and that's precious.

He's being pragmatic in this decision, with him and Everton being the beneficiaries in chief but Southgate and the younger players now also being free of the media leeches sponging a living off Wayne that in all probability would distract the England squad.

Don Alexander
27 Posted 23/08/2017 at 17:26:54
Having been one who was against us re-signing Wayne I'm pleased to be proved wrong so far. His play (and physical shape) has surprised me and I can live with the apparent fact he's not going to buzz for a whole game. Any player with even half a brain should learn bucket-loads off him, and that's precious.

He's being pragmatic in this decision, with him and Everton being the beneficiaries in chief but Southgate and the younger players now also being free of the media leeches sponging a living off Wayne that in all probability would distract the England squad.

Tom Bowers
28 Posted 23/08/2017 at 17:27:02
Many of England's player selections over the years have been undeserved and made by manager's who are short sighted and giving in to the press opinions.
Why on earth did Leon Osman get selected so late in his career ? I still can't fathom that one out and there were many others.
Rooney was one of the few genuine class acts to earn his call-ups over the years.
Jim Harrison
29 Posted 23/08/2017 at 17:42:15
Interesting comment from MK at 13

I know you don't often comment on threads, but should you have the time how would you compare Rooney's overall input so far this season to Rom's last year?

I have it that he didn't score in the first 3 games before bagging a hat trick in the 4th.

I cant remember the games that well, but I wonder whether Rooney's overall contribution so far is greater than Rom's across the pitch?
At this point we have the same points and goal difference after 2 games as last year having played comparable opposition.

Anyhow, good for him, sacking of England. Realistically we wont win it. Save your energy lad. Scholes and Shearer both extended their careers at the top by retiring relatively early.

Rudi Coote
30 Posted 23/08/2017 at 17:51:18
What a guy! What a BLUE!
He's our inspiration
Tony Abrahams
31 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:01:06
Jamie@24, not really cynical, but it would mean that Rooney, will have to stay on his present track, and have a very good season.

I think he's being very unselfish, and winning something for Everton, looks like the kids final wish for his playing career?

Back to England, and for all the accolades, and records, I personally think he played his best football for them whilst he was an Everton player, which was a shame for Wayne Rooney considering how long ago that was.

Tony Waring
32 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:09:11
Spot onJim (29). He looks the part so far and his vision and ability to pick out a telling pass has been great to watch. I'm sure the youngsters will learn a lot from him. It's probably a wise decision on his part to nurse his body so that he can do well for Everton.
Tony Waring
33 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:09:13
Spot onJim (29). He looks the part so far and his vision and ability to pick out a telling pass has been great to watch. I'm sure the youngsters will learn a lot from him. It's probably a wise decision on his part to nurse his body so that he can do well for Everton.
Brian Williams
34 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:11:03
Gotta laugh at a lot of media outlets who are now questioning if Rooney was right to retire and has he done it too early, the same media outlets who were slagging him rotten and saying how he didn't deserve to be picked for England.
They're pissed off now because Rooney has taken control from them and they won't get the chance to destroy him and have the chance for THEM to tell him he's finished for England.
Oliver Molloy
35 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:12:16
He has retired probably because the true Evertonian in him knows that winning a trophy with his boyhood club would be much more meaningful to him and his family never mind us lot.

Add to that Engleland are of course absolute shite and will win feck all with another donkey of a manager in charge , it all makes perfect sense to me.
C.O.Y.B.

Brent Stephens
36 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:14:34
Got to agree with the view that we're probably better off with him no longer playing for England. And he's had the warm feeling of telling Southgate to stick his invitation.
Will Mabon
37 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:27:08
Tony, some might disagree, but for all his undoubted success, I still believe Rooney was never quite the same player after he left Everton... or the even better player he looked like becoming.

I remember that debut hat trick for United against Fenerbache. After cheering his second and third goals, the crowd went into a sort of semi-stunned silence, like they were thinking " 'kin 'ell - what have we just bought!" He frightened the crap out of defenders.

Very soon after, he was played in a slightly different way that took advantage of the incredibly accomplished all round game that he had; no longer the out-and-out free roaming assassin he'd been at Everton.

I believe this was reflected in his in international career, as you highlight.

Mark Morrissey
38 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:28:19
What Oliver Molloy said
Darren Hind
39 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:29:51
Decision had to be made – No-brainer.

Love that he wants to use up whatever is left in the tank playing for us.

Steven Astley
41 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:30:46
I think this says a lot about Wayne and his mindset when you take into account that he only needed 7 more caps to become the most capped England player ever.
It proves he is not just chasing records and is focused on giving his best for Everton.
William Cartwright
42 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:42:06
Very pleased with the impact Wayne has had so far, both on and off the pitch, in the pre-season as well as the meaningful games. His elder statesman role is doing him and the team the world of good. He has had the benefit of being influenced by Fergusson and this is probably a big reason for his character development.

I did not realize he was so close to the record number of caps, and that is a measure of how seriously he is taking his role.

Good stuff all round and hats off to the management for making it happen.

Hugh Jenkins
43 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:44:16
Steve (41) - In that perspective it is a shame, as it is just about the only record he doesn't hold.

However as has been mentioned earlier, he might be taking a powder now for the friendlies - but still may have one last hurrah in the World Cup proper.

If he continues to perform for us like he has so far this season, do not be surprised to see those members of the press who were leading the call for his exclusion from the England team to later this year suddenly be clamouring and screaming for him to reconsider and to come back to be "England's Saviour" once more.

James Stewart
44 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:48:23
Rooney is making some very wise decisions in the twilight of his career.

The fact that Southgate is manager of England tells you all you need to know about the state of international football.

Paul Johnson
45 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:55:28
Wanted to post this earlier but Michael had the comments section off. This is for me a real message that Wayne has something left in the tank and he is going to expend it all on his beloved Everton. It is also a big push back to all the non believers who thought he had come back for an Indian summer. COYB
Paul Johnson
46 Posted 23/08/2017 at 18:58:05
William my only objection to you post is the elderly statesman phrase. I much prefer "proven winner"
Tony Abrahams
47 Posted 23/08/2017 at 19:01:33
That's why I thought Alex Ferguson was out of order the way he treated Rooney, in the end Will.

He might have took the piss by signing a massive new contact, after saying he wanted to leave, but he gave absolutely everything for that manager, and played wherever he was asked to,play, despite for much of his time at Man Utd possibly being their best player?

No tantrums, just 100% graft and quality. I still remember Messi, shaking his head and then clapping Rooney, during one Champions League final, because with Barca, on the counter, the first Man Utd player to sprint back, was the one player Barça, probably feared the most.

I'm glad he's made that decision today, because it seems like a message to us Evertonians, well that's I'm interpreting it anyway.

Paul Johnson
48 Posted 23/08/2017 at 19:07:19
I have to be honest my heart is singing right now. Maybe I am being a sentimental old fool but this game is full of mercenaries who don't give a flying fuck who they sign for. We signed someone who does and that feels good inside.
John G Davies
49 Posted 23/08/2017 at 19:11:10
A great decision for the club. Wayne has always been a better player when getting a run of games. The class he shows on the pitch and the influence he has on the team is the reason Koeman brought him back.

I would look to play him as often as possible certainly Saturday to Saturday. He will have his heart set on winning a trophy for us.

Jason Broome
50 Posted 23/08/2017 at 19:56:54
Turning out to be an excellent signing. Have nothing but respect for the man.
Ian Hollingworth
51 Posted 23/08/2017 at 20:02:18
Being very patriotic and an England fan, I think it is a shame that Rooney has retired. However, now that he is back home and an Evertonian again, it is absolutely fantastic news for us as he will get to rest on international breaks.

I was a big fan of his return for many reasons but he has surprised us all with the level of his performances. How great would it be for Rooney to lead this young and very English Everton side to a trophy.

Brendan Fox
52 Posted 23/08/2017 at 20:03:22
Thanks Wayne for showing true commitment to the cause in wanting to give your all for yours and our beloved Blues.

Here's hoping that Wayne may have a positive influence over the decisions Ross may make in the not too distant future...

John Pierce
53 Posted 23/08/2017 at 20:11:51
In Rooney I think we have a player prepared to drag us through games, kicking and screaming.

His commitment to Everton is clear, and it sensible. The statement uncluttered and professional.

His record says all it needs to at England level.

Looks like a very beneficial decision for Everton.

Would I, after a good season for Everton, be surprised to see him called up for the World Cup? No.

Steve Bingham
54 Posted 23/08/2017 at 20:23:37
I have been totally wrong with every reason I gave for him not re joining us this season. He has shown nothing but dignity and on the park has been the class act with passion and desire to win. Hopefully he can stay injury free and continue to drive us forward.
Brent Stephens
55 Posted 23/08/2017 at 20:25:41
Love his passion. One who will get in the ref's face just enough not to get a card.
Trevor Powell
56 Posted 23/08/2017 at 20:31:00
Colin @ 9 That supposes Sven has managed to get his head out of the rectum of that over-rated prancing pony called Beckham!
Tony Hill
57 Posted 23/08/2017 at 20:45:31
I love him but I think it's premature to say the return is a success. He lasts about an hour at the moment and I think we need to see how he's doing at Christmas. He's going to be a good influence in the dressing room and perhaps there's a bigger plan, but judged as a player for us I suggest caution.
Graham Mockford
58 Posted 23/08/2017 at 20:46:50
Trevor

" that over-rated prancing pony called Beckham!"

Is that the one who played for Man Utd, Madrid, Milan and PSG?

The one who won 6 Premier League winners medals, 2 FA Cups , a La Liga, a Serie A , Ligue 1, a Champions League winner ?

Or maybe the one who along with Owen singlehandedly carried the national team for 5 years or so?

Or maybe the one who was PFA Young Player of the Year, UEFA footballer of the Year, PFA team of the Year x4, Ballon d'Or runner up, FIFA World Player Silver Award x2, UEFA team of the Year x2

Overrated, my arse.

Dave Abrahams
59 Posted 23/08/2017 at 20:55:12
I am glad Wayne has made the decision to retire from playing for England, but in reality it was the only sensible one to make.

I go along with Tony Hill (#57), Wayne needs all the rest he can get from now on, he has done well, made up with the bonus of two goals in the league, but he was gone after just over an hour on Monday night, possibly because of two games in three days, so Tony's advice to wait and see how he continues sounds like good advice to me.

Mike Allen
60 Posted 23/08/2017 at 20:56:26
I think he would have jumped at the chance to play for England again but, if he was just going to be warming the bench, he's done the right thing. However I just think Southgate was/is trying to get back onside after making the mistake of leaving him out in the first place.
John G Davies
61 Posted 23/08/2017 at 21:01:52
Dave,

I was told Wayne covered more miles than any other player on Monday. Don't know if that's true

Dave Abrahams
62 Posted 23/08/2017 at 21:15:42
John G (#61), yes I read that as well, but he must have run most of them before the seventy minute mark. He had done well up to then, apart from his goal, but in the last 20 minutes, he lost the ball an awful lot, his brain was still working but his body couldn't do what his brain was telling him.

I know you would have been watching the game if you could, if you did what did you think yourself?

Peter Fearon
63 Posted 23/08/2017 at 21:19:08
I was not interested in having Rooney back for sloppy seconds after 13 years but if he succeeds Everton succeeds so I hope he does well. Stepping down from selection for that terrible London Club they have the gall to call 'Ingerlund' can only help us - so whatever the reason for his doing so - I can only applaud.
Geoff Evans
64 Posted 23/08/2017 at 21:20:30
Best England player since Bobby Charlton and still as good as any wearing the shirt today and a damn site better than most. Deserves much more credit than he ever received.
Joe Foster
65 Posted 23/08/2017 at 21:33:50
Good move for him and us. He is better off out of that shit show.
Tony Abrahams
66 Posted 23/08/2017 at 21:36:21
Dave, yer know that five night holiday we have booked for you, well you better check your flight tickets if you think that Thurs/Mon, is only three days!
Dave Abrahams
67 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:02:23
Tony (66), my counting was well out, I was thinking the Stoke game was last Saturday, not even thinking about the Europa League game!!!! – that's what you and the twins are doing to my brain.
John G Davies
68 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:06:24
The miles he ran show there is nothing wrong with his general fitness or hunger to graft for us, Dave. I think he is a bit away from match fitness and match sharpness. That will come with games.

Probably put to much effort into the first 3/4 of the game and tired late on. That will improve. You can see the frustration in him as he knows he is not quite there.

Brent Stephens
69 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:06:41
Love the banter between the Abrahams sisters. You'd make a great act on the stage - you know the one I mean.
Ernie Baywood
70 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:16:37
Great decision for Everton and puts the transfer in a slightly different light.

People wondered whether his reasoning for not staying at Utd or taking a bigger payday in China or MLS was down to wanting to be in the England squad. Turns out that wasn't a factor.

Andrew James
71 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:21:51
@Graham

While I agree with your sentiments over Beckham, not sure it is right to say he and Owen carried England for any amount of time. Beckham was always reliable but his greatest achievements were probably 2001-02. Owen started well but was done within a few tournaments.

There were other important players around at the time the two were playing like Shearer, Scholes, Lampard and our own Rooney. I thought Rooney carried England in Euro 2004 personally and that was a team full of very good players including Beckham and Owen.

Alan Smith
72 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:25:09
He is only 31. Maybe it's because he works too hard and is too unselfish.

I wonder what he would be like if he just goal-hanged. If he never came deep and only played along the last line of the defence. Never went wider than the six-yard box.

I'd like to see him only run 5 km a game rather than 11 km. Kolse was scoring in, and winning World Cups much older.

Shearer's 260 goals isn't out of the equation if he goal-hangs and has more patience.

It's a pity our football culture is so dim. We ruined the best footballer we ever had.

Kevin Field
73 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:28:47
Good for Everton... He's one of the best we've ever had in an England shirt. I think the reason he's often overlooked is because he missed tournament games...

He was also on the edge of the golden generation and came into an England team who couldn't have won a conker match never mind win anything in tournament football.

He has shown real class in his first few games back at Everton and I'm one toffee who is glad he's with us...

Andrew James
74 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:38:35
For me Rooney is target focused and he's won everything at club level, he needed more luck, better management and players with his mentality around him for England but still went on to beat Charlton's long standing record.

There are few players that can retire from England and be respected. Shearer comes to mind and Rooney joins him.

And now I suspect he wants to give it all for Everton and win something with us. I am setting him the following targets:

> Score so we win at Anfield
> Score at Wembley to win the FA Cup
> Be part of the team which gets into the Champions League
> Order Ross Barkley to stay
> Out score Dixie Dean's goal record...

One can dream right?

Eddie Dunn
75 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:39:19
He knows what his body is telling him and if he is to give 100 % then he has to let go of England games. This is a message (not just to that prick Southgate) but to the Premier League.

Wayne is at Everton to give his all in the pursuit of his dream...top win a trophy with the team he supports. This should make all of our squad aware of just what it means to play for our club. I am so proud of him right now!

Dave Abrahams
76 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:39:42
John G (68) yes I hope he can sort his fitness out and he will last the match out better in the future, not much wrong with the first three quarters of the match

Alan (72), yes I agree he puts a lot into his game and maybe he needs to adjust his output, possibly he will play further back when we sign the striker.

That's why myself and Tony Hill are advising caution to see how he plays in the rest of the season, but you can see at the moment he is knackered at the end of the seventy minute mark.

Andrew James
77 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:41:22
Alan - agreed

I've never seen Rooney whine like Ronaldo or Lukaku about not having the ball delivered on a platter. Instead he goes looking for it.

He was played out of position a lot in his career and got on with it.

Steven Jones
78 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:42:46
Will 37 - spot on!
Denis Richardson
79 Posted 23/08/2017 at 22:55:55
Good news for us as he gets a rest but I think he's made the right decision. He's not been England's No 1 striker for a while now and doubtful he'll get there again so not a bad shout to call it quits.

He's got the scoring record and lets be honest, England aren't going to pull up any trees next summer, especially given the awful Euro 2014 performance.

We're (hopefully) going to have loads of games this season so good he can put his feet up during the international breaks.

John Pierce
80 Posted 23/08/2017 at 23:35:39
Alan 72, for my money not much between Wayne and CR7 ability wise.

His selflessness has in part reduced his shelf life, CR7 selfishness has in turn extended his at a giant club.

Ronaldo has never compromised where he plays, Rooney so team minded put extra miles on the odometer by his work ethic tracking back and playing more attritional positions.

Only in the SF a year or so ago, as Lukaku rounded the keeper, Wayne was clearing it off the line.

Says it all. Great decision from the man, helping nudge a doubter or two his way.

Paul Rimmer
81 Posted 23/08/2017 at 23:37:51
Eddie is spot on. He's been playing since he was 16 and didn't play much last year - so to retire now is the right decision as he needs a regular blow which the international breaks allow. We also need to manage him not flog him to get 3 good years out of him so I wouldn't play him in cup games til the latter stages.
Dave Speed
82 Posted 23/08/2017 at 23:40:43
Reminds me of the joke about the up and coming young actor (let's say John is his name) out with his girl. He manages to get close to Frank Sinatra and asks him would he just crack on to him on his way past when he visits the gents, so his girl will be impressed that he knows Old Blue Eyes. A bit later Sinatra walks past and says "Hey John. I didn't know that " and before he can finish John says "Frank, do us a favour? Can't you see I'm out with my gal? Call me huh?"
Rooney has done the same with Southgate. Rooney conned him into asking him back so he could tell him to do one. Retired, not cast adrift. Job done.
Bobby Thomas
83 Posted 23/08/2017 at 00:00:58
The correct decision & one he should have made a couple of years ago.

In truth he has been a problem, not the solution, for England for a while. Hodgson was playing him all over the plus & fucking with formations to accommodate him. The best solution would have been to drop him.

He's at the age where he needs less football, not more. This is the best decision for Rooney & Everton.

Jamie Crowley
84 Posted 24/08/2017 at 00:34:51
As many have mentioned, this decision certainly seems to be one of Rooney putting Everton first.

In that light, I thought of something else.

I know "soccer" is a vicious business. If players don't perform, they are sold.

I sincerely hope Wayne Rooney, after "coming home", retires a Blue. He's come back, and I for one hope as age finally catches up to him in the next few years, he stays home and is allowed to ride into the sunset as an Everton player.

Of course the way he's playing, and with the stats showing the ground he's covering, he'll be 58 years old when that happens!

Drew O'Neall
85 Posted 24/08/2017 at 01:00:30
I suport and echo most of the kind words above but here are a couple of points to add to the debate if they haven't already come up (apologies if they have):

1) What does this do to the Rooney brand Everton were presumably hoping to leverage and in so doing derive greater commercial benefit for the club? Alan Smith was talking on Sky Sports today about Rooney's (club and country) career in the past tense earlier and Carragher was referring to his great United career and how the time comes to all to step down - will his enormous fan base move on to the next England/United star? Does international retirement expedite this?

2) Only Wayne Rooney and Gareth Southgate know what was discussed between them but it's conceivable Rooney was not in the manager's plans and actually this was the best PR for both parties.

No axe to grind and I hope Rooney's international retirement is as straightforward as it seems and it's to Everton's benefit.

I personally think he may bang in 20+ goals this season for us and as I've said on another thread before, his physical appearance in terms of muscle and body fat is as good as I've seen it in his career so I think he's giving it his best shot.

Barry Jones
86 Posted 24/08/2017 at 01:53:09
Wayne is a very proud and a very dedicated professional. That is why he left Manchester United, not to be under utilised and even humiliated by their duplicitous manager. Just this week, I read comments from Southgate and the arsehole Gary Neville, saying that Wayne still had a lot to offer the England team if he realised that he was way down the pecking order in terms of selection, but his experience would be invaluable for the younger players.

I can just imagine Wayne reading this, studying the comments of the management and their evaluation of his contribution to the England squad and how it widely it differs from his own opinion of his value and acceptable role.

Wayne wants to lead by example and that means playing. Good on you Wayne. A great decision.

Mark Andersson
88 Posted 24/08/2017 at 02:22:16
Good decision. Rooney will always be refared to as a x man u player by the media because thats just a fact.

If he helps Everton win a trophy it will still all be about Rooney not Everton.

Chances of Everton winning anything with or without Rooney are very slim.

Everton do not spend enough to compete.

I would be happy if Rooney gets the winner in both derbys this season in convincing wins.

As for England they are the Everton of international football. Great at letting you down..

Daniel Lim
89 Posted 24/08/2017 at 02:27:29
Jamie @24,
If he scores 15 goals for us and win us the FA Cup, he can just walk into the England squad next summer.
Daniel Lim
91 Posted 24/08/2017 at 02:50:51
With this (Rooney's commitment to us) I may just sign up for the EPL package here, which is going to cost me a bomb. But I guess we will be live on telly more often. More importantly to watch Rooney the legend more before he goes into retirement. Still remember his goal against arsenal, it's like yesterday.
Garry Corgan
92 Posted 24/08/2017 at 03:18:12
Oh well, it looks like I’m in the minority.

I’d have liked Rooney to remain part of the England setup for the next few months. With a World Cup coming up at the end of the season I’m surprised and disappointed that he didn’t fancy one last crack at a major tournament.

Whether it would have been a victorious month in Russia, or a heavily-covered end to an international career, we would have benefited from the exposure.

Darren Hind
93 Posted 24/08/2017 at 05:52:29
Mark (#88),

I too feared he would spend the rest of his career being referred to as a "former Man Utd player", but I listened to several news and sports channels throughout the night and he was only called an Everton player.

Rightly so. I think the way he has spoken about us since he came back has been a big influence on that.

Ian Jones
94 Posted 24/08/2017 at 06:32:03
Drew @ 85.

I had also thought the same as you on point 2.

I also can go along with those who feel if Wayne has had a decent enough season, and considering Defoe's involvement in squads, there may be an opportunity for him to play himself back into the squad for the finals, assuming England qualify!


Colin Grierson
95 Posted 24/08/2017 at 09:19:24
I don't blame him. The red tops have always had the knives out for him as an England player. I expect they'd have sharpened them now he's no longer a Manure player.
Paul A Smith
96 Posted 24/08/2017 at 10:33:17
Dave 76 I hear you mate I was fully concerned about that when he first came. I think its vital we give him a few breaks in the season.
Its hard for Koeman to prioritise and keep the board, players and fans onside but the likes of Rooney definately needs support within the team and good breaks away from it.
Tell Barkley he simply can't go. The rewards we could reach this season could be worth more than what we recieve for Barkley so get what we can from him then he can go.
Rooney's commitment to any fixture can never be questioned. He has been a real winner and a top example.
The England decision is great even if he was 21.
What does he want to spend a summer of bad press for? Or play pathetic friendlies while 6 players from top 4 sides pull a sicky.
Phil Parker
97 Posted 24/08/2017 at 11:01:41
How good is it to think that once Wayne had set records and won trophies, he wanted to return to the club he truly loves. In fact he always intended to return. He will know, as we do, that if he can help us to a trophy it will mean more to him than all he has achieved in his career. He knows it because he is an Evertonian, and he is not allowing anything to get in the way. He is back where he belongs. I love these romantic stories.
Stan Schofield
98 Posted 24/08/2017 at 12:55:06
This is good news. Wayne seems totally focused on Everton, and isn't going to waste his time with the bag of shite that is the England set-up.
Tony J Williams
99 Posted 24/08/2017 at 13:09:04
"Love his passion. One who will get in the ref's face just enough not to get a card." - Amen, this is something we have not had within the Premiership years.

"What does he want to spend a summer of bad press for? Or play pathetic friendlies while 6 players from top 4 sides pull a sicky" - Exactly.

Glad he has retired, glad he has pretty much publically told Gareth "penalty misser and loser" Southgate where to go and so far, glad he is back.

Rudi Coote
100 Posted 24/08/2017 at 16:20:48
With Wayne, it's not about money, unlike so many "fading" football stars. It's about the enormous and deep passion he has for the team he loves. He is no mecenary out for a retirement wage.

I bet THAT goal against Arsenal gave him more satisfaction than any he scored for Man U or England.

I, for one, am glad he's our player again. He might not win anything with the Blues but it won't be for the want if trying.

A legend nevertheless.
James Hughes
101 Posted 24/08/2017 at 16:44:20
Latest England squad announced and Pickford and Keane are the 'chosen' ones. I have mixed feelings over that.

I used to be pleased when our boys were picked, it usually meant we were playing well. These days it can be more of a curse or inconvenience, just look at McCarthy.

Anyway good luck to them and I see that the knob-head Southgate has named FOUR goalkeepers in the squad. I always think that three is over-kill as one is just along for the ride. Maybe he is going to play Pickford as sweeper.

Paul A Smith
102 Posted 24/08/2017 at 17:59:45
Just been thinking, surely Rooney is the best English player of all time.

Fair enough the world cup winners of 66 can boast an amazing medal. Some of them will have had domestic medals to sit aside them.

Who walks away with achievements like Rooney though?

Domestic and international combined, I can't think of a challenger?

Will Mabon
103 Posted 24/08/2017 at 18:05:11
"Southgate has named FOUR goalkeepers in the squad."

Makes you wonder, is it some perverse kind of indecision?

Stan Schofield
104 Posted 24/08/2017 at 18:45:07
Paul@10: Definitely, the best of the best. 'Top Gun' on a football field.

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