Rooney Declares Lionel Messi As 'The Greatest Ever To Play The Game'

Wayne Rooney has waded in on the Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi debate following his move to the MLS, and given a rather surprising response.

Rooney has been conducting a series of interviews recently since completing his switch from his boyhood club Everton to DC United, and was asked by online podcast Barstool Sports to name the greatest ever.

Without a moment of hesitation Rooney's decision was made, instantly replying back to the hosts: 'Messi.'

The speed of Rooney's response came as a shock to those in the studio, with replies of 'oh, that was quick!' coming back at the former England captain.

Rooney played with Ronaldo for a large portion of his career, as the two players formed a deadly duo in the attacking line of Sir Alex Ferguson's feared side.

Playing with Rooney helped Ronaldo become one of the deadliest finishers in world football, hitting 118 goals in 292 games with a ratio of 0.4 strikes per match.

Offering an explanation however, Rooney admitted no other player can come close to what Messi does with a football.

'They're both probably the best two players to ever play the game, I just think Messi is, in my eyes, the greatest ever.'

Rooney and Ronaldo both infamously clashed on the pitch during the 2006 World Cup, when England met Portugal in the quarter finals of the competition.

A stamp from Rooney saw Ronaldo urge the referee to send off his domestic team-mate, which he quickly achieved before famously winking at the Portugal bench.

The duo quashed any ill-feeling upon their return to Manchester United, and soon clicked together to form one of the most successful Red Devils sides of Ferguson's era.

Rooney and Ronaldo were both instrumental in the 2007-08 season when the club dominated and scooped an incredible Premier League and Champions League double.