"Once a blue, always a blue". That's what Wayne Rooney dished out in permanent marker across a no thrills t-shirt all those years ago. Twelve years on, with blue blood still running through those veins, it's only right his testimonial was a match up in Manchester United colours against his childhood side, Everton.
Pre-season friendlies always have a little something to them don't they. The occasional balmy evening allowing for socks and sandals to get a rare outing to the football matched up with a first chance to see fresh signings in action. It's summer football in a nutshell, right? Wayne Rooney's Testimonial, well it had that, plus a little drizzle and a rock steady 0-0. Yes, not the goal-fest you'd hope for but then again this is a Manchester Utd team dedicated to putting a few peculiar seasons behind them in the shape of ruthless preparation.
Zlatan got a first run out on Old Trafford turf while Roo was a standing ovation. A contributor of many great memories for the Manchester Utd faithful, his time at the club may well have been turbulent but there's no denying he has very much filled the back pages with plenty of glory. On hand to document the story, this behind the scenes offering from Kieran Clarke and BT Sport certainly hits the spot. It's another photographic dish well delivered. With The Community Shield just days away, the wait is very nearly over.
Photography by Kieran Clarke for BT Sport.
