Hate to say I told Roo so

MODESTY forbids me from reminding anyone of what I said earlier this season – that you write off Wayne Rooney at your peril.

Despite Everton’s horrendous autumn, culminating in Ronald Koeman’s sacking at Goodison Park, Rooney (below) has scored 10 goals.

And, from what I have seen, he has been their best player.

Rooney’s collection includes the goal of the season against West Ham from 60 yards, a nerveless penalty equaliser in the derby at Anfield, and the goal which means Everton are still the only side to take a point off Manchester City this season.

It was also his terrific pass to Dominic Calvert-lewin which led to the penalty against Liverpool, and Rooney’s winner at Newcastle in midweek means we can adjust Everton’s sights for the remainder of the season. Sam Allardyce has organised them at the back, and all of a sudden they are keeping clean sheets for fun. Not only are Everton staying up comfortably, I think they could easily finish in the top eight.

FOUR points, and two clean sheets, from two London derbies has changed the whole outlook at West Ham.

I’m really pleased for David Moyes – because the fans’ general tone when he took over from Slaven Bilic was lukewarm at best.

A few weeks ago, I had my doubts about the Hammers surviving, but now I am pretty certain they will stay up.