Wayne Rooney is looking forward to fulfilling a lifelong dream by making his European debut for Everton, reports Sky Sports.

It may only be a Europa League third-round qualifier, but boyhood Evertonian Rooney, who left the club in 2004 three years before their return to continental competition, is relishing the occasion.

"Something I always wanted to do was play in Europe with Everton," said Rooney.

"I was a bit disappointed not to do that before but now I'll have a chance. Obviously, I won the trophy last year so I'm hoping as a club we can go far and, you never know, try to win it. It would be even better.

"The first game back will be an emotional day for me and I'm looking forward to it. Overall, I'm looking forward to the season, hopefully getting back playing regularly and trying to help this club move forward."