Wayne Rooney says Everton return was 'weird' as England striker stars alongside Duncan Ferguson in testimonial match

Former Toffees striker Rooney returns to Goodison Park

(AFP/Getty Images)

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney says it felt 'weird' to pull on an Everton shirt 11 years since leaving Goodison Park after appearing in Duncan Ferguson's testimonial.

The 29-year-old, who once famously branded himself 'once a blue, always a blue', made a cameo appearance as Roberto Martinez's men fell to a 2-1 defeat against Spanish side Villarreal.

Rooney admitted afterwards that he wasn't sure what kind of reception he would receive from the Everton faithful, who have booed him in the past, but was delighted with the positive atmostphere.

"It's nice to come back here and the fans gave me a great reception, which obviously I was delighted with," Rooney told EvertonTV.

"Most importantly it was a big day for Duncan and he really enioyed the game and it was nice to see him back on the pitch again.

"It was a bit different today, going into the home dressing room again. It was a bit weird at first but as I say didn't know what to expect with the reception but it was a great reception.

"I was delighted with the fans' reaction. You never know what to expect but it was great for me, my kids and Coleen as well today and for them to see me in an Everton shirt."

Ferguson played the final seven minutes of the game, with youngster Tyias Browning scoring for Martinez's team.

Rooney is expected to be United's sole striker as Louis van Gaal's men take on Tottenham Hotspur this weekend in the Premier League's curtain-raiser at Old Trafford.