Former Everton and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has revealed that he called Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard ahead of announcing his retirement earlier this week.
"I spoke to Steven Gerrard yesterday actually.
"Despite other offers, I knew instinctively Derby County was the place for me."
The 35-year-old retires as both Manchester United and England's all-time leading goalscorer.
"The stadium, training ground, the quality of the playing staff and the young players coming through and of course the fan base that has remained loyal and supportive.
Rooney has hung up his boots and been named Derby County's permanent manager, and has outlined how a call to Rangers boss Gerrard can only help him achieve his ambitions.
Rooney had been acting as interim manager at Derby since the end of November, but has now taken the job permanently on a two-and-a-half-year contract.
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