The former Manchester United player made his first competitive appearance for the Toffees in 14 years in Thursday's Europa League third qualifying round game against Ruzomberok.

And after Leighton Baines' second-half goal gave them a 1-0 victory in the first leg, England striker Rooney said: "It's something I've been looking forward to for the last few weeks.

"It's obviously great to be at Goodison wearing the blue shirt, it was a great feeling.

"But it was an important game for us so I had to put my emotions to one side. I've done that now and can get down to focusing more on the football.''

On the match, 31-year-old Rooney added on ITV4: "It's very early on in the season... I know we can play better but it's important to win and get the clean sheet.

"Getting the goal gave us a sense of relief and control of the game.''