Wayne Rooney played with some of the best midfielders during his career for club and country, including Roy Keane, Paul Scholes, Steven Gerrard and David Beckham.
On the Wayne Rooney Show, the former Everton, Manchester United and England forward has been reflecting on the qualities of his former team‑mates. He ranks them based on their ability, influence and impact at the highest level.
Rooney on Underrated Team-Mates
Rooney feels Darren Fletcher and Ji-sung Park are a bit underrated. He said that as team-mates, they knew exactly what they were giving, but they don’t get the credit and the headlines.
According to Rooney, Fletcher would always finish the bleep test. He added that Ji‑sung Park’s commitment meant that you never had to worry. He was the one who never stopped.
Gerrard’s Leadership and Keane’s Shortcomings
Rooney highlighted Gerrard for England and for Liverpool, describing him as a leader for Liverpool, becoming captain at a young age (23).
Rooney said he didn’t play with Roy Keane enough to really comment, but noted how much of a leader he was.
He recalled an incident where Keane had a go at Fletcher which felt a bit unfair. Rooney remembers Keane asking Fletch to charge his phone in the dressing room, and then coming in after training to find Roy taking his phone off charge.
Leadership Styles of Others
Rooney said that you’re trying to take bits of everyone. He noted that Stevie led by example with his actions on the pitch, trying to force the game or drag his team back into a game.
He said that Ryan Giggs was more about taking risks, trying to play a pass which a lot of players would not try and make when the game’s tight. According to Rooney, Michael Carrick led with his presence on the pitch and had a presence in midfield.
Rooney feels that Beckham led in different ways and had an aura and charisma about him and how he played the game. He added that one of the biggest compliments he can give to Beckham is he didn’t stop running. He was an example to all the players.
Rooney stated that Joe Cole was more of a flair player. He added that Cole had no excuse not to run back if Beckham is running back and doing that and he’s the captain. Beckham had this aura about him, both on and off the pitch.