Manchester United news: Jose Mourinho brands Wayne Rooney 'England's best player for over a decade'

The Portuguese has long been an admirer of the 30-year-old striker

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney (Getty)

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has branded Wayne Rooney as England’s “best player for over a decade” as the pair prepare to work together for the first time at Old Trafford.

The Portuguese, who replaced Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford last month, has long been an admirer of the 30-year-old striker and made a host of unsuccessful efforts to sign him during his recent spells as manager at Real Madrid and Chelsea.

Speaking as it was announced that United plan to stage a testimonial match against Everton at Old Trafford on August 3 – as a reward for Rooney’s 12 years of service – Mourinho lavished his new captain with praise.

“Wayne is and has been England's best player for over a decade and this game will be a fitting tribute to everything he has achieved,” the United manager said.

“I'm looking forward to what will be a very special night for us both. I'm sure the fans will make this a memorable occasion and help Wayne to raise a lot of money to help support vulnerable children.”

Rooney, meanwhile, says he has no desire to play for another Premier League side after representing Manchester United and boyhood club Everton.

The Liverpool-born striker left Merseyside to join United for £26m in 2004 and has since lifted five Premier League titles alongside a Champions League triumph under former manager Sir Alex Ferguson in Moscow in 2008.

Speaking upon the announcement, he said: “For me there could not be a more special testimonial match. Manchester United and Everton are the only clubs I have played for as a professional footballer.

“I am happy to say now that, whatever may happen in the future, I will never play for another Premier League club. I owe United and Everton everything for giving me my footballing opportunities.”