'Wayne Rooney deserves to return to Old Trafford a legend'

'I think he will get the welcome that he deserves', Mourinho said, referring to Rooney. 'I think sometimes in this country the word "legend'' comes too easy. That is not this [Rooney's] case'.

Everton travel to Old Trafford on Sunday, the ground Rooney called home for 13 years. The 31-year-old helped the club win five Premier League titles, one Champions League and one FA Cup, among other trophies.

He also departed as United's record goalscorer with 253 goals in 557 appearances for the Red Devils, something Mourinho believes should not be overlooked. 

'He is a real legend of the club, the number of appearances, the number of goals and the number of trophies', the United boss added. 'I think clearly he is one of the most important players in the history of Manchester United'.

'I think the stadium will show him that respect that he deserves'. Jose Mourinho, however, remains as competitive as ever: 'I hope, before the match and after the match but not during the match', he concluded.