Wayne Rooney took things way back to 2007 last weekend by lacing up in the Nike T90 Laser II. Was it a signal that his contract with Nike has expired? Potentially. Was it a one off appearance? It was until now. The Everton striker has switched into another T90 Laser II colourway in training this week.
Since Rooney appeared in the black and white edition against Brighton on Sunday speculation has mounted around his future with the Swoosh. Rooney has been a mainstay in Nike's leading attacking assets since signing for the brand in 2003, but now his position is blurred. So what's the deal? We've got a few theories...
Theory One: Rooney's contract with Nike is up for renewal so he's reverted back to his favourite Nike boot whilst he sorts out his next move, with Nike or not. The T90 Laser II coincided with a prolific part of Rooney's career and was a boot that perfectly complimented his powerful, accurate form in front of goal.
Theory Two: Rooney is at a stage in his career where he can just wear what he wants. He's no longer one of Nike's leading faces and doesn't fit the marketing mould of the Hypervenom, which he was previously wearing.
Theory Three: The Nike T90 Laser II is celebrating its 10th anniversary and Wayne Rooney was arguably the leading player to wear the second-generation power boot back in 07/08. Are Nike lining up a limited edition re-release collection? Neither of Rooney's Laser designs that he's worn this week were standard colourway drops.
Rooney scoring against Brighton on Sunday wearing the Nike T90 Laser II.
Of course, it could well be none of the theories above, but after training in the silver and black colourway this week it's likely that Rooney will remain in the T90 Laser II for at least one more game when Everton host Lyon in the Europa League at Goodison Park tonight. The return of the power party? Whatever the case may be, the reemergence of one of football's greatest silos can never be a bad thing in our book.
We took a full look at Wayne Rooney's boot timeline this week. Have a scroll through that, la.
