Wayne Rooney completed his long-awaited move from Manchester United to Everton in the summer and the often criticised 32-year-old has shown signs that he is back to his very best. The fact that he's scored 9 goals from just 12 shots on target in the Premier League this season brilliantly sums up his run of form.
After lifting five Premier League titles, three League Cups and a Champions League trophy, Rooney will, in my opinion, go down as a Manchester United's great. He certainly doesn't get enough credit for his career in football.
Image: PA
Advert
In January 2017, Rooney surpassed the legendary Sir Bobby Charlton to become the club's leading goalscorer. It was a moment that cemented his place in history, 13 years after scoring a hat-trick in a memorable debut in the Champions League against Fenerbahce.
From Martin Tyler's memorable 'Remember the name, Wayne Rooney!' quote to his final goal against Tottenham at White Hart Lane, the once unstoppable force has forged one of the most impressive records in English football history, but that hasn't stopped people from judging him on recent performances.
Unfortunately in past few months or so, I've read article after article slamming Rooney.
To be fair the criticism of Wayne was deserved at one stage, but there was months, maybe even years, of monotonous talk about his ability. Well, I've come to the conclusion that too many are quick to forget the legacy he will leave behind.
Advert
Rooney's critics have blasted him in years gone by, but for me, former England skipper John Terry's actions after Gareth Southgate decided to drop the player from his starting eleven back in October is a great example of his legacy.
The Villa defender beamed about Wayne Rooney's career on social media. Terry, who has likewise felt the wrath of criticism in the not so distant past, was transparent about his thoughts on Rooney's difficult situation, and he's couldn't be more correct in his actions.
Terry referred to Rooney's illustrious past in a lengthy social media post. He made a point of how Rooney is not only England's most capped player but the country's record goalscorer. As soon as I read his post, It hit me. The fact that someone of that stature, a former England and Chelsea captain, had to act in defense of a truly incredible career stretching 15 years left me irritated - very irritated.
It has become crystal clear that people's opinion on Rooney have been clouded by a year or two of playing poorly.
We must remember that this is a player who has lifted five Premier League titles, three League Cups and a Champions League trophy. This is a man who is Manchester United's all-time leading goalscorer.
Advert
The list goes on but something Wayne Rooney has earned, rather than won, is respect.
Not only did Rooney show a huge amount of dignity during a potentially cagey press conference with Gareth Southgate last year, but he showed immense character by praising captain Jordan Henderson ahead of his new role.
Unlike many, he didn't shy away after being dropped by the manager but faced the daunting task of trying to win over the media
Wayne Rooney will never get the credit he deserves until the day he retires.
Advert
When that happens, people will finally reflect on the sheer amount of trophies he has lifted, the goals he's scored for club and country.
Rooney has broken records for England and Manchester United, he's played with some of the world's best - who always have great things to say about the Everton forward.
He deserves far more credit for his remarkable career in the game.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Manchester United, Everton, Wayne Rooney
