Comparisons between Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen who were better players at the teenage level were excited by the latter, but the former Everton star refused to be drawn to the debate
Former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney has had a rather diplomatic response to Michael Owen’s claim that he is superior among the two 17-year-old players.
It comes after the former Liverpool striker claims he is a good player when the pair made a Premier League breakthrough. In an interview with Rio Ferdinand Presents, Owen was asked who could measure up to the former England striker when he first exploded into the scene, replied that he was in his own league.
Owen later doubled his social media comparisons and showed his stunning confidence. Owen, who won the Ballondoor at the age of 22, officially wrote for X: “I won the Golden Boots at the age of 17 (I won the Golden Boots), Watza won the 6. Ballon D’OR WINNER has maintained his level since then.
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Rooney was not interested in his former merger and number discussions with his English teammates, but instead circumvented the question diplomatically by calling for Owen.
“Listen, me and Michael were very different players with different attributes,” Rooney began with his self-titled show. “Michael Owen at 17 and 18 was incredible. I was on the streets pretending to be him despite him playing for Liverpool!
“So I fully understand what he’s saying, but we’re two completely different footballers, different styles, different techniques. Michael Owen is probably the best center forward in the world, and it’s hard to resist anyone who opposes Michael Owen.”
He continued: “Unfortunately, he got injured but perhaps he couldn’t adapt his game, and I couldn’t play from the side or go back to midfield. I think his comments are fair. Of course, he’s trying to back up himself.
Rooney also continued to praise Owen’s character. This was the aspect of the former Newcastle striker who gleaned in interviews with Ferdinand, and often leaned towards Owen, who had a more conservative and retracted personality.
“Michael can come across a bit of boredom,” added Rooney. “But he’s one of the funniest people you’ll meet. He’s in his company. Honestly, he’s very funny and resourceful. Many people think, ‘Oh, he’s so boring.’
Owen, 45, scored 222 goals in a 482-game club career. This included spells at Real Madrid, Newcastle, Manchester United and Stoke before retiring at 32 due to injuries suffered. He also scored 40 goals for England.
Rooney, now 39, moved to United at the age of 18, becoming a record scorer with 253, winning five Premier League titles along the way and the Champions League. He also netted the then-records of England 53 times.
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