Everton boss Koeman hopes for Rooney return
Everton manager Ronald Koeman has described Wayne Rooney as a "great player" and admitted he would be "very pleased" if he opted to return to Goodison Park.
Rooney is currently out of favour at Manchester United with reports suggesting he has been told by Jose Mourinho that he can leave Old Trafford.
The England captain has been linked with a move to Los Angeles Galaxy to link up with fellow Merseysider Steven Gerrard but Koeman would relish the chance to bring him back to his boyhood club.
Speaking ahead of Monday's (AEDT) clash with West Ham, the Dutchman said: "He is a great player and he still hasn't finished his career.
"I don't know his situation, I need to respect that.
"If there is a possibility of Rooney at Everton, I would be very pleased."
Koeman's willingness to discuss Rooney appears to be part of a charm offensive initiated by Everton midfielder Leon Osman, who earlier told Sky Sports: "[A return] would not surprise me.
"I think he has been mending bridges for a couple of seasons now and you know he is an Evertonian at heart.
"I am pretty sure he would love to come back and I hope it happens."
Rooney started his career at Everton, scoring a wonder goal against Arsenal aged just 16. He joined United in August 2004 and has been a regular for club and country ever since until this season, when he has struggled for playing time under Mourinho.
