Mourinho: Rooney Is My Man Now

Jose Mourinho has declared Wayne Rooney is his man now after confirming he tried to buy him during his time as Chelsea manager.

The Manchester United striker is celebrating his Testimonial at Old Trafford against Everton and, speaking to MUTV ahead of kick-off, the manager vowed the best is yet to come from the 30-year-old.

"This one is for Wayne Rooney and for the fans in that perspective to show love for a player who has been magnificent for our club," said Mourinho. "But I'm not a friendly match man. I'm waiting for the big ones!

"You know, I follow from the outside but close because the season he joined Manchester United is the season I came to England for the first time, 2004. I've been here already for two different periods and I was close to it. I can say, because everybody knows, I tried to buy him.

"He is a player I always wanted to have in my side. Finally, I have him and I have him in the club he loves, the club where he has spent the best years of his career. And, I think, the best is yet to come from him.

"I find him full of motivation, full of joy to work every day, and happy to be here as a leader for the young people. He's my man too. I can say, at this moment, he is my man. I am really happy. I hope he has a great night and he forgives me when I change him. I am going to change him because we have a match on Sunday!"