Wayne Rooney opens up on personal difficulties after receiving 'death threats'

Wayne and Coleen Rooney (Image: Wayne Rooney and Coleen Rooney Instagram)

Wayne Rooney has spoken about the reaction he received when leaving Everton for Manchester United in 2004. The forward made his mark immediately when playing for Everton and had a place in the first team at the age of 16. A £27m deal to Manchester United at the age of 18 came after he rejected a new contract offer on Merseyside.

On BBC Sport's The Wayne Rooney Show, Rooney spoke about the backlash he received. He said: "My parents’ house was getting spray painted and smashed up.

"My girlfriend at the time, wife now [Coleen Rooney], her house was getting spray painted. I think that's where you have to be mentally strong. The people around you have to help. Leaving was difficult because I went to Manchester Unit