250 NOT OUT THE LEGEND BY NUMBERS

WAYNE ROONEY wrapped his foot around a sumptuous free-kick to etch his name into the record books as Manchester United’s alltime record goalscorer.

The 31-year-old, on as a 67thminute substitute, struck his 250th goal for the club in the 94th minute to earn United a 1-1 draw.

More importantly, it moved him clear of Sir Bobby Charlton, with whom he shared the record for a fortnight.

“It means a hell of a lot,” said Rooney. “It is a great honour and I am very proud.

“Sir Bobby is such an iconic figure and has been for so long.

“When you sign for the club, you realise how important he is.

“To surpass him in goals is something I never thought I’d do – I have the utmost respect for him.

“He came and congratulated me in the dressing room so I know he’s pleased in some way.

“I am proud and I hope there is more to come. To be all-time goalscorer is a huge honour.

“The players who have played for this club have been world class.

“I’m a team player but records are important. When you finish your career you can look back on it and it’s something to tell your kids.”

While 79- year- old Charlton, whose record stood for 43 years, was understandably emotional, he was among the first to pay tribute to the man who has replaced him.

He said: “I’d be lying to say I’m not disappointed to lose the record.

“However, I can honestly say I’m delighted for Wayne.”

United boss Jose Mourinho said: “It’s an amazing record, an amazing achievement.

“Tomorrow he will get the Football Writers’ Association tribute award, which is the most beautiful moment of his career so far – an amazing moment.”

But he added: “You should speak about Wayne’s record today and tomorrow for 24 hours per day and then finish.

“Then let him be a normal guy, obviously a legend in our club, a legend in the history of English football.

“But the record is in his pocket and now I just want to let him be