Wayne Rooney sends clear message to Michael Owen in response to 'I was better at 17' claim

Former Derby County boss and player, Wayne Rooney, has offered his perspective on Michael Owen's assertion that he was the superior player when both were 17 years old - delivering a rather measured response.

This follows the ex-Liverpool forward's declaration that he was the better performer when both made their Premier League debuts.

During an appearance on Rio Ferdinand Presents, Owen was questioned about which players could rival the former England striker during his initial emergence, with Owen suggesting he stood alone.

Owen subsequently reinforced his position on social media, showcasing his remarkable self-assurance.

The Ballon d'Or winner at 22 then posted on X: "At 17 I scored 18 PL goals (winning the Golden Boot), Wazza scored 6. At 18 I again scored 18 goals (again winning the Golden Boot and coming 4th in The Ballon d'Or), Wazza scored 9. In our opening 7 seasons, Wazza didn't outscore me once (117 goals v 80). In which time I became the 2nd youngest Ballon d'Or winner ever. Injuries hindered me from then on while he sustained his level. Therefore, he'll go down as a better player than me. But, at 17, please.....", reports the Mirror.

However, Manchester United legend Rooney showed little appetite for a statistical argument with his former United and England colleague, instead choosing to diplomatically avoid confrontation by praising Owen. "Listen, me and Michael were very different players with different attributes," Rooney began on his self-titled show.

"Michael Owen at 17, 18 was incredible. I used to go out on the streets and pretend to be him, even though he played for Liverpool!".

"So what he's saying, I completely understand but we're two completely different footballers, different styles, different techniques. Michael Owen for a three, four year period was probably the best centre-forward in the world and it's hard to argue against anyone coming up against Michael Owen then."

He went on: "Unfortunately he did get his injuries and he probably couldn't adapt his game maybe as well as I could in playing from the sides or going back into midfield. I think his comments are fair. Of course, he's going to back himself. I'd back myself, but I'd never judge myself against Michael Owen because he's someone I actually looked up to and had the pleasure of playing alongside."

Rooney also proceeded to commend Owen's character.

This aspect of the former Newcastle striker's nature came across clearly during his chat with Ferdinand, despite public opinion often portraying Owen as having a more reserved and cautious disposition. "Michael can come across as a little bit boring," Rooney added.

"But he's one of the funniest people you'll meet. Being in his company, honestly he's so funny and witty. A lot of people think, 'Oh he's quite boring' but he is so funny and I hope he gets that out because, everyone who played with him, we know what a good lad he is and sometimes that doesn't always come across."

Owen, 45, netted 222 goals across a 482-match club career that featured stints at Real Madrid, Newcastle, Manchester United and Stoke before hanging up his boots at 32 due to persistent injuries. He also found the net 40 times in an England shirt.

Rooney, now 39, transferred to United at 18 and subsequently became their all-time leading scorer with 253 strikes, claiming five Premier League crowns and the Champions League during his tenure. He also bagged a then-record 53 goals for England.