Ever since he burst onto the Premier League scene as a precocious, talented teenager in 2002, Wayne Rooney has rarely been out of the headlines.
After a stunning start for the club he grew up supporting with Everton, the Croxteth prodigy has gone on to become one of the most famous names in world football.
He became the youngest ever England international and goalscorer, aged just 17 in 2003, and with Manchester United he has won the Champions League trophy and four Premier League titles.
However, his controversial move from Everton FC to Manchester United in 2004 and a red card at the 2006 World Cup have also been key moments of an already fascinating career.
Married to wife Coleen, and a father to two-year-old son Kai, the 26-year-old has scored more than 100 goals for the Red Devils, and for England he enters every major international tournament as the nation’s great hope of ever-elusive glory.
Despite the worldwide fame which accompanies his talent, Wayne remains shy and down to earth off the pitch. In a world exclusive interview with JMU Journalism, the Scouse superstar shows his private side, discussing fatherhood, his passion for the city of Liverpool, and his plans for the future.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsQDufnpF2E
Who has influenced you most away from football?
My mum and dad have always been there for me growing up. They have helped me become who and what I am today.
Who makes you laugh?
Kai makes me laugh every day. He’s such a character and always trying out new things. Also, I really like the comedian Chubby Brown, I’ve got all his DVDs and have watched them so many times.
What makes you proud to be from Liverpool?
I think it has to be the people, they’re so down to earth, friendly and welcoming. Also, The Beatles make me proud, I love the band and listen to their music. I went to a Paul McCartney concert held at Anfield a few years ago and got the chance to meet him, which was fantastic. And I can’t forget Everton Football Club. I have supported them, along with my family, since I was born.
You always tweet about the TV show ‘Celebrity Juice’, have you ever thought about going on it?
I’ve been approached to go on it, but it’s not something I fancy doing. I love watching it, though, it’s the highlight of a Thursday night.
Your favourite bands include Stereophonics and Oasis… did you ever have any ambition to be a rock star rather than a footballer?
I think about it all the time, ha ha! Football is my first love and music a close second.
How would you feel if Kai wanted to pursue a footballing career in the future?
I would support Kai in whatever he wanted to do, the one thing I would never do is push him into something.
What team are you bringing Kai up to support?
Everton and Man United. He comes to Old Trafford to watch me play but I would love to take him to Goodison sometime in the near future to watch Everton, like my dad did with me.
Has he started kicking a ball yet?
Yeah, he’s been kicking a ball for a while, he’s left-footed. I enjoy having a kickaround with him in the garden.
Did you get involved with changing nappies?
When I had to, ha! No, I did help out, but Coleen did most of the nappy changing. It takes getting used to at first but now I do it all the time.
How would you describe yourself as a parent?
I am the stricter one out of me and Coleen. I am caring and fun.
Would you like more children?
Yes, I’d love more children in the future. I love being a dad and would like Kai to have a brother or sister.
Would you like to be a football manager at the end of your career?
Yeah, I would. I love football so when I finish playing I would like to still be involved in it somehow and a manager would be my first choice.
© JMU Journalism Liverpool Life 2012