Dominic Calvert-Lewin has praised Wayne Rooney for the influence he had on the early parts of his Everton career.
The Blues re-signed Rooney as part of a strong recruitment drive after he had spent 13 years at Manchester United back in the summer of 2017.
The former England striker signed a two-year deal to return to his boyhood club, for whom he made his debut as a 16-year-old and burst onto the Premier League scene.
And although he was allowed to leave the club after just one season, Calvert-Lewin has opened up on what it was like learning from Rooney, who he still keeps in contact with today.
“When Wazza came in you could see the quality he had straight away,” the Everton forward told the FA’s YouTube channel.
“Just technically with the ball he could put it where he wanted and put it anywhere.
“I think at the stage I was in my career there I have a lot to thank Wazza for.
“One of my heroes growing up watching him score. He has got everything and had everything, so to be able to play up close with him and learn from him on a daily basis and the way he operated.
“I’ve spoken to him since he left Everton and he has left the door open for me to ask him any questions or run anything by him which I am grateful for.
“That was at Anfield and we came out with a draw and it was the day I won a penalty and got a lot of stick for it. I enjoyed it thoroughly and it was a penalty even if I say so myself.”
