The Merseysiders claimed one of the most famous victories in the
history of European football when they came from 3-0 down at half
time to defeat AC Milan on penalties in Istanbul.
The architect of Liverpool’s resurrection was Steven Gerrard, who
scored one goal and created the other two in what will be
remembered as an epic individual display.
And Rooney admits that watching Gerrard lead The Reds to victory
was a bitter pill to swallow.
"It was hard for me seeing Steven Gerrard below with the European
Cup," said the ex-Everton striker.
"I know it was good for English football – and the fact that four
Premier League teams have reached the quarter-finals this year
shows how strong the game is in this country.
"But I was an Everton fan as a kid so of course I wasn't too
pleased when Liverpool won the Champions League."
And Rooney admits that part of his motivation in moving to Old
Trafford was to have a chance at levelling the score by matching
Liverpool’s Champions League triumph, although he insists that the
Premier League remains United's first and foremost priority.
"Winning trophies like the European Cup and the Premier League was
the reason I joined Manchester United,” he said. “I won the League
last year and to win the Champions League would be another major
achievement.
"I think as a club we should have won it more than we have done and
hopefully we can all contribute to that this season.
"But for me personally, being champions of England is massive. It
was what I grew up watching so, yeah, the Premier League is the
main one for me."