Irons may Roo bro’s presence
IF John Rooney needs any inspiration as non-league Stockport face West Ham he only has to watch a couple of big brother Wayne’s spectacular goals against the Hammers.
Wayne first embarrassed the Irons playing for Manchester United at Upton Park in 2014.
Spotting keeper Adrian off his line, he managed to lob the Spaniard from just inside the home side’s half in a 2-0 victory.
Three years later at Goodison Park, the Everton returnee this time sent a stunning effort from inside his own half into the empty West Ham net after catching Joe Hart out.
But after he left the Everton academy, unable to follow in Wayne’s Goodison footsteps, John was determined to map out his own football path.
It took in Macclesfield, New York Red Bulls, where he played alongside Thierry Henry, Orlando City, Barnsley, Bury,
Chester FC, Wrexham, Guiseley and Barrow, where he helped them gain promotion to the EFL.
“You have to make your own way in the world. Clubs aren’t going to sign you just because you are Wayne Rooney’s brother,” said the midfielder.
“People are going to bring Wayne’s name up, but I’ve got my own career. I’ve got to put myself first.
“I really enjoyed myself at Barrow, but Stockport impressed me with their ambitions in trying to get back into the Football League. Now we’ve shown what we are capable of.”
It will also be a big night for Rooney’s manager Jim Gannon, who is now in his third spell as Stockport boss with the aim of ending the club’s nine-year spell outside the EFL.
Gannon said: “I’m a realist. Like any employee if I’m doing a good job I’ll still be here. I don’t look too far into the future,”