Wayne Rooney breaks his silence over Everton job offer

The former Manchester United captain was named among a shortlist of contenders to replace Rafa Benitez, who was relieved on his duties at Goodison Park earlier this month.

Having emerged as one of English football’s great young talents at the club, returning to the blue half of Merseyside towards the end of his career, Rooney was swiftly named one of the favourites for the role.

Everton have spoken to Vitor Pereira and Frank Lampard over the role this week but Rooney has now confirmed he declined an invitation to the interview proves.

Rooney revealed at a press conference on Friday that Everton contacted his agent with the offer to come forward.

‘Everton approached my agent and asked me to interview for the job,’ Rooney said.

‘But I turned it down. I believe I will be a Premier League manager and I am ready for that 100 per cent. But I have a job at Derby, which is important to me.’

36-year-old Rooney has lifted Derby from the foot of the Championship despite being hit with a 21-point reduction this season.

While they are level on points with bottom club Barnsley, they have been given a fighting chance of survival with the Rams seven points from safety.

MORE : Frank Lampard ahead of Vitor Pereira as race to be Everton’s new manager nears an end

MORE : Frank Lampard back in frame for Everton job as Vitor Pereira considers pulling out amid fan backlash

For more stories like this, check our sport page.