Everton striker Sandro has likened Wayne Rooney to his former Barcelona teammate Andres Iniesta.

Sandro has been snapped up by Ronald Koeman for a bargain price after firing 14 goals in 30 La Liga appearances for Malaga last season.

But he did most of his growing up in Barcelona.

“I have been very lucky so far in my career," said the 22-year-old. “First I played alongside Messi and now it is Wayne Rooney. They are two of the biggest names in ­football history.

“From the first day here, Wayne was really kind to me. He has showed a real desire to help me and I think it is great to see that.

“For me, as a player, it is an opportunity to learn from one of the top ­players. It was the same at Barcelona, where I think I learnt a lot.

“La Masia instils values for life as a person as much as for football.

“I learnt so many things from the likes of Xavi, ­Andres Iniesta and Carles Puyol – players with so much stature and ­experience of top-level football.

“You are learning from these guys every minute you're with them."