Everton: It doesn’t matter what Wayne Rooney says

Wayne Rooney can tell Everton fans everything they want to hear, but all that really matters is what he does on the pitch.

Wayne Rooney is officially back with Everton. Now, the question turns to what we can expect from him?

Obviously, this is not the young talent who left Merseyside as a teenager, to further his career. Similarly, this is not same player who was named PFA Player of the Year in 2010.

However, this does not mean Rooney cannot still be effective. And that’s all that really matters here.

As such, the 31-year old can say all the right things, but ultimately, it doesn’t mean a thing. All anyone cares about, is what he does on the pitch.

(Come on Wayne! Do you really expect us to believe you’ve been wearing Everton pyjamas for the past 13 years?!?!)

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We know the Blues can benefit from Rooney’s extensive experience of playing in big games and winning trophies. This will be extremely beneficial when facing the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and, of course, Manchester United.

However, Ronald Koeman is looking for more from England’s all-time leading goalscorer. The Everton manager expects him to lead by example, showing the other players how to always work hard and give 100 percent, whether it be during a game, or just in practice.

Similarly, and just as importantly, Koeman wants Rooney to show the younger players how to behave off the pitch. This will include curbing his partying lifestyle, with the club’s strict policy regarding alcohol.

Critics will continue to question the rationale of bringing back a player who is past his prime, and that’s fine. But Rooney doesn’t need to score 30 goals this coming season, to be considered a success.

All the Croxteth-born star has to do is display his unsurpassed work ethic, stay fit and show he has matured considerably, since leaving in 2004. If he can do that, he will give Koeman and Everton exactly what they need, as they prepare to challenge for a top six, and maybe…just maybe, a top four spot.

Next: Is James McCarthy right to leave Everton?

Now the transfer has been made official, what’s your take? Are you excited to have Rooney back, feel it’s too little too late, or not particularly bothered either way? Share your thoughts in the comments section.