Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney is a name that inspired belief within the walls of Old Trafford.
A unique player – an enigma – destined to shine on the brightest stages.
His legacy of five Premier League titles, alongside a Champions League, a Club World Cup, an FA Cup, a Europa League, and three League Cups, tells only a portion of his story.
As a boy who ended Arsenal’s 30-game unbeaten run to the 18-year-old that left supporters flabbergasted at Euro 2004 – his ability sent shockwaves across the globe.
From the moment he arrived in Manchester, it was evident he belonged.
253 goals in 559 appearances later, the Croxteth lad is United’s all-time leading marksman and the only player to have scored 250 times for the 20-time English champions.
His catalogue of finishes is inspiring, with many sealing results and titles along the way.
That said, we have selected five of our favourite Premier League finishes from the former captain to celebrate the achievements of a walking icon.
A not-so-rainy night in Stoke
At five is the goal that brought Mr Rooney to number 250 for United.
With Stoke leading after a 19th-minute own-goal from Juan Mata, José Mourinho’s side looked lethargic in attack.
But, as was so often the case, the ever-reliable number ten shouldered the responsibility of a set piece in the fifth minute of added time, delivering a technically magnificent strike.
This remarkable goal earned his side a point and surpassed the goalscoring record of the legendary Sir Bobby Charlton.
He allowed himself seconds to celebrate before demanding his teammates collect the ball to restart the game.
Counter-attacking football at its very finest
17 March 2007 saw a star-studded Manchester United dispatch the visiting Bolton Wanderers by four goals to one at Old Trafford.
A brace from Park Ji-sung and Rooney sealed a comfortable victory, but The Red’s second was sublime.
United, famed for their scintillating pace in transition, turned defence to attack in seconds, with the majesty of Cristiano Ronaldo and his English teammate cutting the visitors to shreds.
It was as much about the pace of Ronaldo as it was about the overall contribution of Rooney, but the finish oozed class.
Here is our number four.
Steve Bruce approved
When Rooney discussed this effort after the game, he modestly described it as a “nice goal”.
We are, of course, referring to the iconic strike against West Ham in 2014 – a 48-yard moment of genius in a two-nil away victory.
His anticipation was evident, and his awareness undeniable as Ashley Young’s lofted clearance broke sweetly into his path after a misjudged landing.
Adrián could only watch on as his attempts to reclaim position inevitably ended with the goalkeeper landing inside his net.
With Beckham in attendance, he joined supporters in applauding the brilliance on display.
How could you possibly deny this as number three? Steve Bruce knows a thing or two about an Old Trafford legend.
It’s not often I’m speechless
On the cusp of being substituted with a niggling injury and sharing his discontent with referee Neale Barry, Rooney took his anger out on the football.
Witnessing David Bellion warming up to replace him, the ball bounced perfectly from an attempted clearance, leading to one of the finest goals in Premier League history.
The wonder strike spurred his side towards a two-one victory against Newcastle, electrifying Old Trafford and Andy Gray in the process.
In many ways, the seconds before and after the goal remain a perfect summary of his undeniable passion.
Worthy of winning any game, at any time, in any country.
How is this not at the top of the list, you ask?
It defies description!
In fairness, Martin Tyler said all that needed to be said.
How about sensational? How about superb? I could not agree more.
An utterly majestic piece of footballing brilliance to win the Manchester derby by two goals to one.
To possess such confidence in your ability – this, my friends, is the work of genius and our pick at number one.
Wayne Rooney is the definition of a player who deserves to be recognised every month by the supporters of this football club.
Often, bizarrely, his legacy is somewhat underappreciated.
We are glad that we lived in a time where we could appreciate the man in person and grow old remembering the iconic moments he gave us all.
Would you include a different goal in your top five? Let us know in the comments or through our socials.
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