Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney will play for Everton in a testimonial for his former team-mate Duncan Ferguson.
The 29-year-old will play for the ex-Everton striker, who he says has much influence on his career during his early days in Merseyside, against Villarreal at Goodison Park on 2 August, the Toffees have confirmed.
“As a young lad growing up in Croxteth, Duncan Ferguson was a hero of mine,” Rooney told Everton’s official website.
“I cannot think of a better way to thank Dunc for all he did for me than turning out in his fully deserved testimonial match. Had he not asked me to play I would have gone and supported him on the day as I am sure most other Evertonians will.”
Rooney moved to Old Trafford from Everton in 2004, but has always received walm welcome from the latter club’s fans on visits.