Kelly Somers’ Must-Have Interview with Wayne Rooney Revealed
Few interviews capture the essence of a football legend as candidly as Kelly Somers’ conversation with Wayne Rooney. Hosted by the acclaimed presenter, The Football Interview is a groundbreaking BBC series that offers an intimate look into the lives of sports and entertainment icons. Every Saturday on BBC iPlayer, BBC Sounds, and the BBC Sport website—later airing on BBC One after Match of the Day—the show delivers unfiltered discussions about motivation, career highs and lows, and the personal stories behind the fame.
In its debut episode, Kelly Somers sits down with Wayne Rooney, England’s all-time top scorer, five-time Premier League champion, and now a respected BBC pundit. The interview peels back the layers of Rooney’s storied career, revealing the man behind the legend.
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Wayne Rooney: A Career in Focus
With 53 goals in 120 appearances for England and a trophy-laden club career that includes Champions League, Europa League, FA Cup, and League Cup triumphs, Rooney’s legacy is undeniable. Yet, in this revealing chat with Kelly Somers, he opens up about the passions, sacrifices, and untold stories that shaped his journey.
Football: A Lifelong Obsession
When Kelly Somers asks Rooney what football means to him, his answer is immediate: It was everything growing up. I played at school, in the house, even in the streets—it was all I ever wanted to do. That relentless drive didn’t fade with time. Now a father, he finds new joy in watching his children fall in love with the game.
Football never leaves you, he reflects. It shapes who you are. Now, seeing my kids experience that same passion—it’s like reliving my own childhood.
From Local Pitches to Global Stardom
Rooney’s journey began with Copplehouse Colts at just seven years old. We’d write down every game’s result—goals, assists—and stick it on the fridge, he laughs. But the road to greatness wasn’t smooth.
At 14, a pivotal moment arrived when Everton’s youth coach, Colin Harvey, caught him with a bag of cider. He told me, ‘Keep this up, and you’ll throw away your talent,’ Rooney recalls. That harsh truth became a turning point. From then on, I focused entirely on football.
Family: The Backbone of Success
Rooney credits his parents for their unwavering support. I didn’t appreciate it back then—the early-morning buses, the sacrifices. But now, as a father myself, I understand.
With four sons immersed in football, life is hectic. It’s non-stop—training, matches, different locations, he admits. But seeing his kids embrace the sport makes it all worthwhile.
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Career Defining Moments and Unforgettable Regrets
Kelly Somers dives into Rooney’s most memorable—and painful—matches.
The 2005 FA Cup final against Arsenal, he says without hesitation. We played brilliantly but lost on penalties. That’s the one I’d rewrite.
Another low point? England’s 2007 loss to Croatia, which dashed their Euro 2008 hopes. Watching from the bench was the first time I ever felt embarrassed as a player.
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A New Chapter in the Spotlight
After a storied playing career, Rooney transitioned to management with Derby County, DC United, and Birmingham City—though he admits the latter was a misfire.
Management was a challenge I wanted, he tells Kelly Somers. But after Birmingham, I questioned if it was the right path for me.
Now, as a BBC pundit, he’s embracing honesty. Fans deserve the truth. If I criticize, it’s because I respect the game too much to sugarcoat it. With a smirk, he adds, As a player, I probably wouldn’t have liked me as a pundit. But that’s growth!
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Behind the Scenes: Rooney Off the Pitch
Finding Balance Away from Football
How does Rooney unwind? A glass of wine and a good series, he says. As a player, I left football at the stadium—no post-game analysis at home.
Kai Rooney: The Next Generation?
His eldest son, Kai, is making waves in Manchester United’s academy. He’s got the same passion I did, Rooney shares. But he avoids sideline coaching: That’s what real coaches are for!
A Surprising Confession
Rooney stuns Kelly Somers with an unexpected admission: I cry at everything—emotional movies, X-Factor auditions. People think I’m aggressive, but I’m a softie at heart!
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Breaking Stereotypes
Despite his tough on-field persona, Rooney is determined to shatter one myth: Just because I didn’t take GCSEs doesn’t mean I’m uneducated.
He studied black history, religion, and global cultures to connect with teammates. Understanding others made me a better player and person.
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Final Thoughts: Legacy and Dreams
Kelly Somers closes the interview by asking what Rooney is most proud of.
My family, he says without hesitation. Seeing my kids grow into good people—that’s my biggest achievement.
And if he could achieve one more thing? With a grin, he jokes, Maybe become the next James Bond!
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Don’t miss Kelly Somers’ full interview with Wayne Rooney on BBC iPlayer, and tune in every Saturday for more exclusive episodes of The Football Interview.
