Wayne Rooney appreciates Everton supporters' reception after Man Utd win

Wayne Rooney thanked Everton fans for their warm reception on an emotional day at Goodison Park.

The Manchester United striker scored at his old home for the first time since 2007 as United won 3-0 to end a run of three straight defeats at the stadium.

Rooney, who went some way towards repairing his fractured relationship with Everton supporters when he played in Duncan Ferguson's testimonial game in the summer, raised a hand in apology after scoring United's third.

And he made a point of mentioning the home supporters on a day when Everton were mourning the death of their two-time title-winning manager Howard Kendall.

Rooney told Sky Sports: "I got a great reception when I came back for Duncan's testimonial and again today. I appreciate that, but I had to come here and do a job for Manchester United.

"My performances and lack of goals here over the years have disappointed me, but I've scored today and I'm glad to get the victory."

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Former Everton player and manager Kendall's death was announced on Saturday morning, and Rooney said: "It's very sad news - I spoke to Duncan this morning and it's a sad day for Everton Football Club.

"I'm sure everyone at the club feels it, and I'd like to pass on my condolences from me and my family to his family and wish them well in this sad time."

Rooney's form has come under scrutiny this season, but a second goal in three Premier League games took him joint-second on the competition's all-time scorers list.

"What matters to me is what my manager and team-mates think," he said. "I'm a strong-minded person and I've had that throughout my career. I'm certainly not going to let it affect me now."

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