LONDON • Wayne Rooney says he has made up his mind about whether to leave Manchester United and has "lots of offers" to consider after becoming such a peripheral figure at Old Trafford.
He has been excluded from Gareth Southgate's latest England squad and is facing the end of his international career, comprising 119 caps and 53 goals.
The English forward was a late substitute in the 2-0 win against Ajax in the Europa League final, enabling United's all-time leading scorer (253) to lift the trophy. But that could conceivably have been his last appearance if, as expected, he now tries to find a team where he can play more regularly.
"There are lots of offers on the table, both in England and abroad, and that's what I have to decide on," Rooney said. "I've got some decisions to make now over the next few weeks so I will talk with my family and then I'll decide.
"I think I have to make a decision in terms of a football decision,and that's what I'll do. As soon as I know what's going on I'm sure you will."
To the question of whether a player of his stature had found it difficult adjusting to life on the sidelines, Rooney said: "I've always been a team player. This year, I've never once sulked or let my head drop. I've understood what was best for the team, I've tried to help when the manager's played me.
"Of course I want to play. I want to be on the pitch. That's the decision I have to make now - if I want to continue doing that (in some way help the club win trophies) or go on and play more regular football."
The 31-year-old was asked whether, deep down, he had already made up his mind.
"More or less, yes," he said. "I still believe I could (play every game). If you're asking me if I'm a better player now than I was 10 years ago then obviously I'm not but I still feel I've got other qualities that can help the team."
Ronald Koeman, the Everton manager, has talked about the possibility of the forward returning to the club where his career started.
Though Rooney did not directly mention that option, he reiterated that he would not be tempted by any other English team.
"I've played for two Premier League clubs and they're the only two Premier League clubs I'll play for," he said.
THE GUARDIAN
