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Wayne Rooney joins Everton; Romelu Lukaku poised to join Manchester United

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Following a period of intense speculation Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has rejoined his boyhood club Everton on a two year deal.

Rooney, 31, returns to the Merseysiders after 13 trophy-laden years at Old Trafford during which he won every domestic and major European club competition.

In a social media posting on Instagram, Rooney thanked the United fans for their support over the years.

He said: “Just want to say a massive thank you to everybody at Manchester United.

“Thanks to the boards over the years, the managers and coaches I’ve played under, the staff I’ve worked with, the team mates I’ve played alongside, and finally the amazing fans that I’ve been lucky enough to have played for.

“Thanks for the memories.”

He scored a club record 253 goals in 559 appearances for the Reds and won five Premier titles, three League Cups, the FA Cup, the Europa League and the Champions League, after a £27m move in 2004.

Record breaking Wayne Rooney takes the 10 shirt off United-bound Romelu Lukaku

Despite a goal-laden career Rooney only managed eight goals last season during a restricted number of appearances and had been fielded in midfield several times by previous United manager Louis Van Gaal but did break the all-time Old Trafford scoring record.

Rooney will wear the number 10 shirt vacated by Romelu Lukaku who is poised to join United after a fee was agreed with Everton.

Everton manager Ronald Koeman had already made his desire to sign Rooney clear during a difficult last season which saw his Old Trafford appearances limited.

Koeman said: “Wayne has shown me that ambition that we need and that winning mentality – he knows how to win titles and I’m really happy he’s decided to come home.

“He loves Everton and he was desperate to come back.” added the Dutchman, “He is still only 31 and I don’t have any doubts about his qualities. It’s fantastic he’s here.”