Duncan Ferguson praised Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney for returning to Everton to play in his testimonial 11 years after his former team-mate left Goodison Park for Old Trafford.

Rooney appeared in a blue shirt for the first time since his £27million move in the summer of 2004 after accepting an invitation from Ferguson, his boyhood hero, to play in yesterday's friendly against Villarreal.

The England skipper, who has previously endured a tough time during visits to Merseyside since his switch to United, received a standing ovation from the Everton faithful after coming on for Tom Cleverley with 17 minutes to go

Ferguson was delighted Rooney made the return on his big day and lauded the former Blues striker, saying: 'Special thanks to young Wayne. Today tells us everything you need to know about what he thinks of us.

'It's incredible what he's done today, playing in the royal blue colours.'

Rooney nearly made an instant impact, fizzing an effort from distance just shy of the top corner, after being introduced in his old No 18 shirt.

Ferguson, who started his love affair with the Toffees when he joined on loan from Rangers in 1994, spoke on the pitch following the 2-1 defeat and said of the match: 'It's been absolutely tremendous. It's been a fantastic day and fantastic 20 years.'

Addressing the fans, the 43-year-old who made a six minute cameo, added: 'The fans of this club, we live for you. We love you.'

Ferguson gave a rallying cry ahead of next season as he left the field for the last time and said: 'You are the most passionate fans in the world, so for next year. Come on!'

The Everton coach gave a rallying cry ahead of next season as he left the field for the last time and said: 'You are the most passionate fans in the world, so for next year. Come on!'