WAYNE ROONEY played a whole 90 minutes and then roared: I’m ready for the Championship.
The England, Manchester United and Everton legend, 34, made a big impact on his Derby debut – playing a hand in both goals in a 2-1 win over Barnsley at Pride Park.
Wayne Rooney is ready for the Championship after helping Derby to a win over BarnsleyCredit: Reuters
He said: “I don’t feel too bad. I’ve been training for quite a while so my fitness is good.
“Obviously my match fitness isn’t 100 per cent but I had no problem getting through the 90.
“I had no doubts about that. I’ve played at a high level in the US. I’m still fit and, as long as I am fit, I’ll be OK.”
When asked if he uses ice baths to help his body recover, he laughed: “Never done ice baths, but I am probably one of the old school players in then team who doesn’t really focus on recovery. My body will heal itself.”
He added: “It was a tough game. Barnsley played well. I know what to expect from this league because I’ve watched it for a long time.
“I’ll have to adapt to certain things but I’ll be ready for them.”
Rooney is at Derby as a player coach and he relishes the responsibility of helping the young Rams.
Rooney’s son Kai, 10, was captured leading the celebrations in the standsCredit: Sky Sports
And he said: “It works both ways. They have got great energy and I can help them with my experience.
“I spoke to them a lot on the pitch tonight about small things.
“I just try to be that voice on the pitch and to guide them in small details.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
