Rooney lives Everton dream
Friday, January 17, 2003
Article summary
Wayne Rooney, 17, said on Friday it was "a dream come true" to commit himself to Everton FC until 2006.
Article body
Wayne Rooney, arguably the most promising young footballer in England, has committed himself to Everton FC until the end of the 2005/06 season.
A revelation
The 17-year-old has been a revelation in his first season as a professional, scoring a stunning goal in October to end Arsenal FC's 30-match unbeaten run. The strike made Rooney the Premiership's youngest scorer until Leeds United AFC prodigy James Milner struck on 26 December aged 16 years 357 days, eclipsing Rooney's mark by a mere four days.
'Dream come true'
Rooney said: "I'm delighted. It's a dream come true really - it means a lot, and I can't explain it. I have been an Everton fan all my life and I am delighted now that everything with the contract has been sorted out."
'Wonderful strength'
Manager David Moyes hailed Rooney's "wonderful strength, pace and ability to go past people", before saying he was "really pleased" to tie Tony Hibbert to a deal which also takes the defender through to 2006.
'Major talents'
Deputy chairman Bill Kenwright said: "Over the last couple of years this club has seen several promising youngsters depart, so it's particularly pleasing to announce the signing of what we believe to be two major young talents. The fact the two players are both Evertonians has been inspirational to everyone at the club."
