
The Wayne Rooney Show
- Episodes
- 51
- Released
- weekly
- Latest episode
- Jul 10, 2026
About the podcast
Wayne Rooney, Premier League icon, England legend, and the teenage sensation who lit up the headlines at just 16, is back. This time, he's behind the mic. The Wayne Rooney Show is your dose of football talk, where Rooney and friends team up for a deep dive into football's biggest stories. Expect raw, unfiltered opinions and wild stories from his own career - everything from dressing room drama to unforgettable international nights. You'll also get exclusive behind-the-scenes moments with some of football's biggest names. Subscribe now and remember the name.
Episodes 51
Van der Sar on World Cup Heartbreak, Man United and Sir Alex
Who will win the World Cup? Who are the real favourites to lift the trophy? And what does it actually take to succeed on football's biggest stage?Wayne Rooney is joined by Manchester United legend Edwin van der …
Show notes
Who will win the World Cup? Who are the real favourites to lift the trophy? And what does it actually take to succeed on football's biggest stage?
Wayne Rooney is joined by Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar to debate the leading contenders, relive World Cup heartbreak with the Netherlands and explain why some players thrive under the biggest pressure while others don't.
They also lift the lid on life under Sir Alex Ferguson, revisit Manchester United's greatest team, relive the battles with Barcelona, discuss the evolution of goalkeeping and look back at Van der Sar's unforgettable assist for Rooney.
Romário: Will Brazil Ever Find Another R9?
Why can't Brazil produce another Ronaldo? Have they lost what made them the world's most feared football nation?Wayne Rooney is joined by Brazil legend Romário to relive the iconic 1994 World Cup triumph …
Show notes
Why can't Brazil produce another Ronaldo? Have they lost what made them the world's most feared football nation?
Wayne Rooney is joined by Brazil legend Romário to relive the iconic 1994 World Cup triumph, explain why Brazil are still searching for the next great No.9 and reveal why he volunteered to take a penalty in the World Cup final.
Romário also names the greatest player he ever saw, agrees with Wayne that modern football has become too tactical and reveals why he'd have loved to play alongside Wayne.
Essien & Rooney: ‘We’d have done the Suárez handball’
Could an African nation finally win the World Cup? How close did Ghana come to making history? Wayne Rooney and Michael Essien relive glory, heartbreak and unforgettable battlesFrom Ghana's unforgettable rise …
Show notes
Could an African nation finally win the World Cup? How close did Ghana come to making history? Wayne Rooney and Michael Essien relive glory, heartbreak and unforgettable battles
From Ghana's unforgettable rise at the 2006 World Cup to the heartbreak of Luis Suárez's infamous handball in 2010, Michael Essien reflects on carrying the hopes of a nation, the pressure of football's biggest stage and why Ghana still believe their greatest achievement is still to come.
The pair also revisit the brutal battles between Manchester United and Chelsea, discuss José Mourinho's winning mentality, and reveal why facing each other was one of the toughest challenges of their careers.
Tim Cahill On The World Cup That Changed Everything
What’s it like to score your country’s first-ever World Cup goal? What separates World Cup winners from everyone else? And can England finally go all the way?Tim Cahill sits down with Wayne to relive …
Show notes
What’s it like to score your country’s first-ever World Cup goal? What separates World Cup winners from everyone else? And can England finally go all the way?
Tim Cahill sits down with Wayne to relive Australia’s plucky 2006 World Cup campaign, what life was like under Guus Hiddink and reveals the mentality that took him from Australia to Millwall, Everton and football’s biggest stage.
They also debate England’s chances under Thomas Tuchel, why character can matter more than talent at major tournaments and the moments that define careers. Plus, Everton memories, Wayne’s wish that he’d spent longer playing alongside Cahill and life after football.
UNCOVERED: Clichy on Mbappe, Henderson and France 2010
Gaël Clichy joins Wayne for the latest World Cup debate covering England's hopes, France's expectations and Jordan Henderson's controversial selection. There's also a passionate defence of Kylian Mbappé, with …
Show notes
Gaël Clichy joins Wayne for the latest World Cup debate covering England's hopes, France's expectations and Jordan Henderson's controversial selection.
There's also a passionate defence of Kylian Mbappé, with comparisons to an all-time great and a warning that football sometimes does not fully appreciate brilliance until it's gone.
This is a fascinating look inside life at a major tournament, with the truth behind France's infamous 2010 World Cup controversy and why modern defenders are struggling. Plus, predictions, dark horses and who could lift the trophy.
Why Wayne Rooney Thinks Scotland Can Make History
Can Scotland finally make World Cup history? Ryan Christie joins Wayne to reveal why this squad believes it can achieve something no Scotland team ever has. Wayne explains why he’s backing Steve Clarke’s side …
Show notes
Can Scotland finally make World Cup history? Ryan Christie joins Wayne to reveal why this squad believes it can achieve something no Scotland team ever has.
Wayne explains why he’s backing Steve Clarke’s side to surprise people, opens up on Scott McTominay’s remarkable rise and questions whether Manchester United made a huge mistake by letting him leave. Could McTominay be the player who makes the difference?
Plus, Christie reveals what makes this Scotland dressing room so special, the dream of facing Brazil on football’s biggest stage and why belief inside the camp has never been higher. Can Scotland finally get out of their group and prove everyone wrong?
UNTOLD: Walcott & Defoe’s 2006 World Cup Fallout
Theo Walcott and Jermaine Defoe join Wayne Rooney to revisit one of England's most controversial World Cup decisions.Did England get it right by taking a 17-year-old Walcott to the 2006 World Cup? Was Defoe …
Show notes
Theo Walcott and Jermaine Defoe join Wayne Rooney to revisit one of England's most controversial World Cup decisions.
Did England get it right by taking a 17-year-old Walcott to the 2006 World Cup? Was Defoe unlucky to be sent home after travelling with the squad? And what really went wrong with Sven’s and Capello’s teams?
The trio relive the highs, heartbreaks and untold stories from England's World Cup campaigns, before giving their verdict on Thomas Tuchel's current squad and England's chances of finally going all the way.
Unfiltered: Danny Dyer, Angry Ginge & Usain Bolt Join Wayne
Wayne Rooney goes behind the scenes at Soccer Aid with Danny Dyer, Angry Ginge and Usain Bolt. And Danny doesn’t hold back on West Ham's relegation and Jarrod Bowen's England snub.How did Angry Ginge prank …
Show notes
Wayne Rooney goes behind the scenes at Soccer Aid with Danny Dyer, Angry Ginge and Usain Bolt. And Danny doesn’t hold back on West Ham's relegation and Jarrod Bowen's England snub.
How did Angry Ginge prank Wayne into turning up for FIFA training when there wasn't even a session? And Ginge shares his candid views on Pep leaving Manchester City.
Plus, why does Usain Bolt think Manchester United are finally moving in the right direction? Why are England like Arsenal and who is he backing at the World Cup?
Wayne and Moyes: The Transfer That Changed Everything
Wayne Rooney returns to Everton with the manager who gave him his debut, David Moyes. What really went on before Sir Alex Ferguson finally signed Wayne? Why did Everton have to sell their biggest homegrown …
Show notes
Wayne Rooney returns to Everton with the manager who gave him his debut, David Moyes. What really went on before Sir Alex Ferguson finally signed Wayne? Why did Everton have to sell their biggest homegrown star? And would Wayne have done anything differently?
From secret transfer meetings and emotional reflections on leaving his boyhood club, to the untold stories behind Rooney’s explosive rise, this is a fascinating reunion between two men whose careers are forever linked.
Plus, brutal old-school pre-seasons, brilliant dressing room stories, and what do they both think of England’s and Scotland’s chances at the World Cup?
Spurs Survive, West Ham Down! Wayne Rooney’s Brutal Final Day Verdict
The Premier League season is OVER and Wayne, Kelly and Kae react to West Ham’s relegation, Tottenham surviving by the skin of their teeth and Sunderland completing one of the stories of the season by qualifying …
Show notes
The Premier League season is OVER and Wayne, Kelly and Kae react to West Ham’s relegation, Tottenham surviving by the skin of their teeth and Sunderland completing one of the stories of the season by qualifying for Europe.
Actor and lifelong Hammer Tom Davis joins the show to give his verdict on where it’s all gone wrong, from recruitment and ownership to the club losing its identity after David Moyes left. Wayne questions the players’ intensity and explains why the warning signs have been there all season.
The panel also debate whether Tottenham were lucky to stay up and if Roberto De Zerbi can finally turn them around. There’s praise for Sunderland’s unbelievable rise from the Championship to Europe and Wayne shares why Chelsea missing out on Europe could actually help new manager Xabi Alonso next season.
Elsewhere, the team discusses Bruno Fernandes breaking the Premier League assist record and some of the online backlash to Manchester United celebrating individual awards. Wayne outlines why he dislikes guard of honours during matches and he reveals the ONLY time he’s ever cried at football.
Plus: Wayne dishes out his end-of-season award: best signing, most improved player, surprise package and the games that defined the campaign.
You can watch The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Football YouTube, iPlayer, as well as listen on BBC Sounds.
No Way Man City Are This Successful Without Pep!
Pep Guardiola leaving Manchester City? Wayne Rooney gives his instant reaction to one of the potential biggest managerial stories in recent years.Have City planned for this? Did Peps’ behaviour after the FA Cup …
Show notes
Pep Guardiola leaving Manchester City? Wayne Rooney gives his instant reaction to one of the potential biggest managerial stories in recent years.
Have City planned for this? Did Peps’ behaviour after the FA Cup final reveal this was coming, and was Maresca always the natural heir?
Wayne also discusses how Pep has changed English football more than any modern manager. And that Manchester City “won’t be as successful” without him.
Salah's Liverpool Outburst, My Sir Alex Fallout & Chelsea Appoint Alonso
Was Mo Salah right to publicly criticise Liverpool on his way out - or has one of the Premier League’s greats got this badly wrong?Wayne Rooney gives his brutal verdict on Salah’s explosive comments, questions …
Show notes
Was Mo Salah right to publicly criticise Liverpool on his way out - or has one of the Premier League’s greats got this badly wrong?
Wayne Rooney gives his brutal verdict on Salah’s explosive comments, questions Liverpool’s leadership, and reveals the Sir Alex Ferguson fallout that saw him dropped for the Manchester United legend's final home game.
The Anfield Wrap’s John Gibbons joins to give the Liverpool fans’ perspective as the panel debates the club’s identity crisis and Arne Slot’s future.
Plus, Xabi Alonso to Chelsea - have they finally got it right? And with Michael Carrick closing in on the Manchester United job, what does Wayne think he needs to succeed?
Jordan Pickford on World Cup Dreams & Everton’s Rise
Wayne Rooney sits down with Jordan Pickford to talk Everton, England and World Cup ambition.Can Everton push for Europe? What is life really like as England’s number one? And how does Pickford handle pressure …
Show notes
Wayne Rooney sits down with Jordan Pickford to talk Everton, England and World Cup ambition.
Can Everton push for Europe? What is life really like as England’s number one? And how does Pickford handle pressure for club and country?
Jordan Pickford opens up on Everton’s progress, his ambition to win the World Cup with England and the mentality needed to perform at the highest level. He also discusses goalkeeper techniques, dealing with criticism and why Wayne Rooney was one of his football heroes growing up.
Plus, Wayne goes behind the scenes at Everton, takes penalties against Pickford and catches up with players and staff around the club.
What REALLY Happened at Derby? Wayne & Jagielka reveal all
What’s it really like trying to stop Wayne Rooney at his peak? And how did it go when he becomes your teammate and then your boss? Phil Jagielka explains exactly what went on when he joined Wayne at Derby …
Show notes
What’s it really like trying to stop Wayne Rooney at his peak? And how did it go when he becomes your teammate and then your boss? Phil Jagielka explains exactly what went on when he joined Wayne at Derby County during one of their most tumultuous periods, working under him as a colleague while the club battled shocking off-field issues, points deductions and constant uncertainty. From rivals to teammates for club and country, Wayne and Phil lift the lid on life inside shared dressing rooms, and what Wayne is really like up close: the competitor, the leader, and the personality behind the headlines. They also reveal which England defenders they believe should make it to the World Cup.
James Nelson-Joyce: “I want Wayne in This City Is Ours!"
James Nelson-Joyce joins Wayne Rooney in Liverpool and it doesn’t take long before talk turns to a potential role in This City Is Ours. But can he actually act? Wayne fancies his chances as an actor.There's a …
Show notes
James Nelson-Joyce joins Wayne Rooney in Liverpool and it doesn’t take long before talk turns to a potential role in This City Is Ours. But can he actually act? Wayne fancies his chances as an actor.
There's a deep dive into football on Merseyside. Would Wayne have loved to play for Klopp? Who really runs the city - Liverpool or Everton? Expect strong opinions, Scouse humour, and a few digs along the way.
James also opens up on the success of This City Is Ours, his journey to a BAFTA nomination, and the reality behind the scenes. How do you deal with rejection? What does it mean to represent Liverpool on screen? And why do Scousers always stick together?
Bruno Fernandes On Man Utd Pressure, Critics & Captaincy
Wayne Rooney sits down with Bruno Fernandes to talk Manchester United, pressure and captaincy. How does Bruno handle criticism at Man Utd? What is it really like leading the club during difficult periods and …
Show notes
Wayne Rooney sits down with Bruno Fernandes to talk Manchester United, pressure and captaincy. How does Bruno handle criticism at Man Utd? What is it really like leading the club during difficult periods and performing under constant pressure? Bruno Fernandes opens up on life as Manchester United captain, dealing with critics, playing through injuries and the mentality needed to deliver at the highest level. Wayne Rooney also reflects on his own experiences at United, leadership and what it takes to succeed under pressure. And Bruno also reveals his ambition to win the World Cup with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Paddy Pimblett SLAMS Arsenal Fans, Talks UFC & Merseyside Derby
Wayne Rooney sits down with Paddy Pimblett for a brutally honest chat on football, the UFC and life at the top.Can Liverpool handle the pressure of the Merseyside Derby? Why does Paddy hate Arsenal so much? …
Show notes
Wayne Rooney sits down with Paddy Pimblett for a brutally honest chat on football, the UFC and life at the top.
Can Liverpool handle the pressure of the Merseyside Derby? Why does Paddy hate Arsenal so much? From Liverpool and Everton to Arsenal and Manchester City, they break down football’s biggest talking points - form, pressure, scouse identity, and what really matters in big games.
Wayne’s love of the fight game takes the conversation beyond football, as Paddy opens up on fight camps, setbacks, and his winning mentality - while Wayne reflects on pressure, discipline and performing at the highest level.
This episode contains a discussion about mental health and suicide. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised, you can find support via the BBC Action Line: https://bbc.co.uk/actionline/
Rooney and Littler: The BRUTAL reality of being #1
Wayne Rooney sits down with Luke Littler. What does it feel like to perform under pressure as a teenager? How do you block out the noise when the whole world is watching? Also just how does Luke get on with …
Show notes
Wayne Rooney sits down with Luke Littler. What does it feel like to perform under pressure as a teenager? How do you block out the noise when the whole world is watching? Also just how does Luke get on with Luke Humphries, and is taking risks the only way to reach the very top?
From Luke's rapid rise and fearless approach on the biggest stages, to Wayne's own experiences at Manchester United and England, the pair explore the mentality required to succeed at the highest level.
They debate the moments that define greatness - would you rather score a last-minute winner at Old Trafford, or hit a nine-darter under the lights? And why do the very best, from Phil Taylor to Roger Federer, have what it takes to reach the very top?
Wayne Rooney Reveals His Top 5 Greatest Sports Stars Ever
Wayne Rooney reveals his top 5 sports stars of all time - but who truly deserves the title of the greatest ever? And which name at No.1 will surprise you most? And why did he leave out some huge names you’d …
Show notes
Wayne Rooney reveals his top 5 sports stars of all time - but who truly deserves the title of the greatest ever? And which name at No.1 will surprise you most? And why did he leave out some huge names you’d expect?
Wayne shares personal stories about what was it really like meeting Michael Jordan? What happened when he sat down for dinner with Mike Tyson? He also talks about how watching Tiger Woods at Augusta was so special.
From the dominance of Serena Williams to the cultural impact of Michael Jordan, the relentless winning of Tom Brady and the raw power of Mike Tyson, Wayne breaks down the athletes who defined their eras. But who changed their sport the most? And why does one unexpected name rise above them all?
Hodgson On ROCKY Ronaldo Relationship & Is Guehi Up There With Terry?
Recorded shortly before his return to management with Bristol City, Wayne Rooney sits down with his former manager, Roy Hodgson, for a revealing conversation about life at the very top of football. Just what is …
Show notes
Recorded shortly before his return to management with Bristol City, Wayne Rooney sits down with his former manager, Roy Hodgson, for a revealing conversation about life at the very top of football. Just what is it really like managing players like Roberto Carlos and Ronaldo? And how do you cope with the pressure that comes with England? And why did Liverpool go so wrong?
He also speaks about Oliver Glasner, what does he make of the job he’s doing now? Roy also names former Palace players he believes are operating at the level of Rooney, Gerrard and Terry.
Wayne fondly remembers his time being managed by Roy and what really changes when you go from player to manager? How do you earn respect in the dressing room, and what does pressure feel like when results begin to turn?
Rooney SETTLES Midfield Debate: Gerrard, Lampard, Scholes & Keane
Wayne reflects on the best midfielders he ever played with - from Steven Gerrard’s dominance and how he would have wanted him at Manchester United, David Beckham's quiet leadership and Lampard’s timing in the …
Show notes
Wayne reflects on the best midfielders he ever played with - from Steven Gerrard’s dominance and how he would have wanted him at Manchester United, David Beckham's quiet leadership and Lampard’s timing in the box.
Wayne looks at Roy Keane’s authority, Michael Carrick’s understated control and why Scholes’ football brain set him apart. There’s high praise too for Ji-Sung Park, the relentless engine who stopped Andrea Pirlo and how players like Darren Fletcher and Owen Hargreaves played key roles at Manchester United.
And which opposition midfielder stands out to Wayne? And what is his ultimate midfield line up?
Dowman's Breakout & The Anthony Gordon Debate
Wayne reflects on Max Dowman’s breakthrough moment for Arsenal and explains why those first moments can stay with a player forever. He also discusses how young players should be supported, balancing the hype …
Show notes
Wayne reflects on Max Dowman’s breakthrough moment for Arsenal and explains why those first moments can stay with a player forever. He also discusses how young players should be supported, balancing the hype around them with the need to protect their development based off his own experiences at 16.
Wayne also addresses the discussion around Anthony Gordon's post-match comments after Chelsea and the role sports science now plays in team selection, explaining how different the approach would have been earlier in his career under Sir Alex Ferguson.
They talk about Bruno Fernandes’ influence and consistency during a difficult period for Manchester United and there's also praise for Liverpool youngster Rio Ngumoha, whose direct style and willingness to run at defenders has caught Wayne’s attention.
And what does Wayne think about Arsenal’s position in the title race? And why does he believe the race is not completely settled yet?
Michael Owen... Who Was Better At 18?
Wayne Rooney sits down with Michael Owen to look back on two of the most explosive teenage breakthroughs English football has ever seen. At the heart of the conversation is the big debate: who really made the …
Show notes
Wayne Rooney sits down with Michael Owen to look back on two of the most explosive teenage breakthroughs English football has ever seen. At the heart of the conversation is the big debate: who really made the bigger impact at 18? They also discuss whether modern football still allows teenage stars to emerge in the same way, and how today’s forwards, from Erling Haaland to Hugo Ekitike are developing and whether the Frenchman can become truly world class.. Michael and Wayne compare themselves to the young players coming through today, and whether Liverpool on form are the best team in the Premiership and should Michael Carrick get the Manchester United job permanently. They reflect on the pressure of playing for England, the dressing rooms they walked into as teenagers, and the expectations that followed them throughout their careers, from Anfield and Old Trafford to major tournaments with the national team. It’s a frank and entertaining look at two remarkable careers, and the teenage moments that defined them.
Franny Jeffers... "Leaving Everton Killed Me"
Wayne sits down with his former teammate Franny Jeffers to retrace a career that began with a boyhood Everton dream. Franny recalls joining the club at 11, the Christmas night call from Howard Kendall that led …
Show notes
Wayne sits down with his former teammate Franny Jeffers to retrace a career that began with a boyhood Everton dream. Franny recalls joining the club at 11, the Christmas night call from Howard Kendall that led to his debut at 16, and the pride of representing his boyhood team, inspiring a young Wayne watching from Croxteth.
They revisit their England call-ups, sharing the pitch together under Sven, before turning to the Arsenal move that changed everything - a deal confirmed while Franny was in a nightclub in Magaluf! He reflects on walking into a dressing room with Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp, realising “there’s levels to football”, and the struggle for rhythm that followed.
In one of the most honest moments, Franny admits leaving Everton may have “killed” his career, as he and Wayne discuss belief, loyalty and the fine margins that define the game.
Why Rangers BOOED Him & Meeting Maradona
Wayne takes us on a trip through the most memorable European away nights from his career. He revisits the 2007 Champions League semi-final at the San Siro, remembering the performance from one AC Milan …
Show notes
Wayne takes us on a trip through the most memorable European away nights from his career. He revisits the 2007 Champions League semi-final at the San Siro, remembering the performance from one AC Milan superstar that he still calls the best he’s ever played against. He explains why Rangers was the most hostile ground and how it got a bit personal between him and the Ibrox crowd. Wayne also recalls a surreal post-match encounter in a Chinese restaurant with Diego Maradona after playing Real Madrid and the souvenir he walked with and shares why Celtic Park was special for him, even in defeat, and how Sir Alex Ferguson gave him both barrels after the game. And what was Wayne's favourite European night? A match that he says he should never have played in, but saw Manchester United give one of their biggest rivals a football lesson. You can watch The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sport YouTube, iPlayer, as well as listen on BBC Sounds.
Wayne Kicks Spurs OUT Of The Big Six?!
Wayne Rooney has questioned whether Tottenham can still be regarded as part of the Premier League’s traditional “big six” following their defeat in the North London derby.Wayne, Kelly Somers & Kae Kurd reflect …
Show notes
Wayne Rooney has questioned whether Tottenham can still be regarded as part of the Premier League’s traditional “big six” following their defeat in the North London derby.
Wayne, Kelly Somers & Kae Kurd reflect on Spurs’ current position with Wayne suggesting their league standing reflects the level of their current squad. Does he believe Tottenham have just about enough to avoid relegation?
In terms of Arsenal, they debate who should be starting in the number 10 role - Eberechi Eze or Martin Ødegaard? And is Declan Rice thinking about winning too much?
Looking ahead to England, Wayne mentions how several established internationals have experienced mixed club campaigns this season, while emerging players, like Morgan Rogers and Nico O'Reilly, have strengthened their cases in recent weeks.
He also lifts the lid on his work as a Match of the Day pundit, describing the programme as the most demanding broadcast role he's undertaken and how he wants to continue to improve.
Man City - Why I Want Pep to STAY & Are They Title FAVOURITES?
We have an in-depth Manchester City special for this episode and Wayne, Kelly and Kae are joined by former City midfielder Michael Brown and podcaster David Mooney. They assess how City’s season has unfolded so …
Show notes
We have an in-depth Manchester City special for this episode and Wayne, Kelly and Kae are joined by former City midfielder Michael Brown and podcaster David Mooney. They assess how City’s season has unfolded so far and they discuss whether they will catch Arsenal in the Premier League title race.
There’s a major focus on the future of Pep Guardiola: will this be his final season in Manchester? How much might his decision hinge on whether City win silverware? And why does Wayne want him to stay?
They tackle the big off-field question: how the charges for allegedly breaching Premier League financial rules - strongly denied by Manchester City - could influence Guardiola’s thinking, and whether a guilty verdict could make his departure more likely. Wayne reveals how he would feel if he were retrospectively awarded a Premier League winners’ medal depending on the outcome of the case.
They also look at why Phil Foden’s form has dipped. Is he a victim of tactical evolution, squad rotation, or both?
You can watch The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sport YouTube, iPlayer, as well as listen on BBC Sounds.
Villa v Newcastle DRAMA! Are Refs REALLY Hiding Behind VAR?
Wayne, Kelly and Kae welcome former Premier League referee Graham Scott to discuss modern officiating. They break down the controversial decisions from the Aston Villa v Newcastle FA Cup tie, with Graham …
Show notes
Wayne, Kelly and Kae welcome former Premier League referee Graham Scott to discuss modern officiating. They break down the controversial decisions from the Aston Villa v Newcastle FA Cup tie, with Graham explaining why it’s unfair to say referees are hiding behind VAR or petrified to make big calls without it. He reveals whether officials know at half-time if they’ve made a mistake, how errors affect them mentally, and why early VAR days carried a stigma when decisions were overturned.
Wayne shares his concern that football’s emotion is being drained by technology, and the panel debate whether Premier League referees should drop into the Championship - where there’s no VAR - to stay sharp.
Graham recalls the time Rooney confronted him after a heavy challenge in a game against Tottenham, while Wayne lifts the lid on how Sir Alex Ferguson encouraged Manchester United players to pressure refs, but punished them if they got booked.
Wayne also gives his verdict on Thomas Tuchel extending his tenure as England head coach: why it’s a smart move by the FA and what it could mean for the squad going forward.
You can watch The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sport YouTube, iPlayer, as well as listen on BBC Sounds.
Francis Jeffers & John Rooney “We Want Another FA Cup Upset”
It’s a proper family affair on this week’s The Wayne Rooney Show as Wayne is joined by his brother, Macclesfield manager John Rooney, and his assistant, the former Everton striker Francis Jeffers. The episode …
Show notes
It’s a proper family affair on this week’s The Wayne Rooney Show as Wayne is joined by his brother, Macclesfield manager John Rooney, and his assistant, the former Everton striker Francis Jeffers. The episode starts where it all began: Croxteth. The trio reminisce about growing up together, with Francis recalling seeing a young Wayne up to mischief, long before the Premier League spotlight arrived. They share stories from their teenage years, including nights in their local pub, and the legendary moment one of the regulars started diving around the bar wearing an actual Peter Schmeichel shirt Wayne had handed over after an Everton match. Wayne opens up on how much he looked up to Francis when he burst into Everton’s first team as a teenager. He also reveals that Francis was the inspiration behind his famous “Once A Blue, Always A Blue” message after scoring in the FA Youth Cup Final. The focus then shifts to the present day and Macclesfield’s remarkable FA Cup run. John and Francis look ahead to their huge 4th round tie with Premier League Brentford, discussing the mood in the camp and whether they believe another upset is on the cards. The pair also relive their stunning 3rd round win over Crystal Palace, with Francis revealing that a half-time row between Palace’s manager and captain convinced him the upset was on. Wayne adds his own perspective, explaining just how easy it can be for Premier League sides to get caught cold in these fixtures. You can watch The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sport YouTube, iPlayer, as well as listen on BBC Sounds
My MADDEST Moments: Goals, Chest Shaving & A Fergie Impression!
Wayne looks back on some of the wildest and most unforgettable moments of his career with Kelly Somers and Kae Kurd. He relives his stunning halfway-line strike for Everton against West Ham in 2017, and reveals …
Show notes
Wayne looks back on some of the wildest and most unforgettable moments of his career with Kelly Somers and Kae Kurd. He relives his stunning halfway-line strike for Everton against West Ham in 2017, and reveals whether Sir Alex Ferguson used to lose his temper seeing him try something like that at Manchester United.
Wayne also opens up on the infamous moment he swore into the camera after scoring against West Ham, why he did it, whether he regrets it now, and why he felt the two-game ban that followed was especially harsh.
The episode also dives into some of the Premier League’s greatest goals, including his role in Robin van Persie’s iconic volley against Aston Villa in 2013, why it wasn’t just a lucky moment, and where it ranks among the best strikes the league has ever seen.
Plus, he revisits the famous end-to-end team goal with Cristiano Ronaldo against Bolton, how it was worked on in training, and why that tactic was often so effective for United, especially against Arsenal. Wayne also shares what it was really like playing alongside Ronaldo as he elevated himself to superstar level, and what he was like behind the scenes.
Finally, Wayne explains why he shaved the number 19 on to his chest and what Coleen thought of it and he tells a hilarious story from a team charades game where he dared to mime Fergie’s infamous boot incident with David Beckham…right in front of the boss himself.
You can watch The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sport YouTube, iPlayer, as well as listen on BBC Sounds.
These are the latest 40 of 51 episodes. You’ll find older episodes in the podcast’s feed.
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