Wayne Rooney returning to Everton to close out his career is the rumour that will not quit. It feels like it has been predestined ever since he swapped Merseyside for Manchester on transfer deadline day in August 2004.
Over time, animosity at his departure has dulled to the extent he turned out in royal blue for Duncan Ferguson's testimonial in 2015. As much as it stung at the time, a career overview justifies his decision to leave a then-struggling Everton in 2004. Among the various trophies, Rooney stands as captain and record goalscorer for both club and country with his legendary status assured as the only player to score 250 goals for Manchester United.