Wayne Rooney stuns with exquisite free-kick for Manchester United legends and break hoodoo since Cristiano Ronaldo exit
09/07/2024 11:10 AM
Wayne Rooney has put his Plymouth plight behind him and reminded the world just how good he is at football.
He might have put on a pound or two, but the England and Manchester United great is still majestic with a ball at his feet.
With the international break a cruel intruder on an exciting start to the Premier League campaign, top clubs are still having fun.
The Red Devils are just one of those putting on a show for supporters with their legends taking on Celtic heroes.
And Rooney, definitely entertained the masses assembled at Old Trafford, seeking excitement and a hit of nostalgia to take the edge off their tough start to the campaign.
After 42 minutes, Manchester United’s icons won a free-kick on the edge of the area.
Up stepped Rooney and Artur Boruc, in the Celtic goal didn’t stand a chance
The Pole was left rooted to the spot in the middle of his goal as the ball was whipped up and over the wall, and into the top left corner.
Postage stamp stuff.
It left the MUTV commentary team stunned.
Commentator Tim Long offered: “He’s still got it.”
And the Old Trafford crowd revelled in the moment of genius from their all-time record goalscorer.
It has been two years since Manchester United fans witnessed one of their players net direct from a free-kick.
The last was Cristiano Ronaldo in April 2023 against Norwich in the Premier League.
The game, though, would end 1-1 with Gary Hooper netting the leveller.
Now a manager with Championship side with Plymouth, Rooney’s struggles on the touchline wee perhaps eating into his legacy as one of England’s greats.
Managerial stints with Derby County, DC United, and Birmingham City have seen his renown diminish.
His current spell with Plymouth has them winless in four Championship matches.
No wonder Rooney was delighted to get back out onto the Old Trafford pitch and showcase his talent once more.
He said pre-match: “It’s my first opportunity where I’ve had the time to come back and play in one of these games.
“It’s great for the Foundation but I think to see so many ex-teammates as well and some of the faces, it’s a real privilege.”
The real privilege, though, went to the fans at Old Trafford who witnessed Rooney show that talent will never leave you, especially when you’re as good as he was.
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