09/07/2017 17:35, Report by Adam Bostock

Wayne Rooney delivered a heartfelt message to Manchester United staff, players and supporters on Sunday afternoon, just hours after his departure to Everton was confirmed.

The former captain has rejoined the club he supported as a boy and made his professional breakthrough with, prior to being signed by Sir Alex Ferguson in a high-profile transfer in 2004.

After spending 13 years and winning 16 trophies at United, it's clearly an emotional moment for the Reds' record goalscorer as he moves back to Merseyside, and this is reflected in his post on social media.

"Just want to say a massive thank you to everybody at Manchester United," said the striker.

"Thanks to the boards over the years, the managers and coaches I've played under, the staff I've worked with, the team mates I've played alongside, and finally the amazing fans that I've been lucky enough to have played for. Thanks for the memories!"

Former team-mates who posted messages to Wayne on social media included current Reds stars Ander Herrera and Jesse Lingard, who reacted to his exit as they boarded the squad's pre-season tour flight from Manchester to Los Angeles.

Lingard tweeted: "All the best skipper in the next chapter of your amazing career. Been an absolute pleasure and learnt so much, @WayneRooney."

Also on Twitter, Herrera said: "One day I will be able to tell my grandkids I played with you. All the best and thank you @WayneRooney #FarewellToALegend."

Rooney's long-time colleague for club and country, former England right-back Gary Neville, said: "All the best @WayneRooney and congratulations on a great United career. The best striker I played with and saw at the club."

Look out for more comments on Wayne's departure in the next day or so on ManUtd.com.