Wayne Rooney enjoying freedom of American life

He has been the focal point of English football for well over a decade, and with the incredible performances on the pitch he had to accept a certain level of scrutiny off it.

The former England captain was regularly followed by the press during his time in his home country, and if it wasn't paparazzi that were pointing their cameras at him it was members of the public that wanted to get a photo with him.

In moving to America, he revealed to the 'Daily Mail' how different it has been for him to wander around in public and not be harrassed, something that he won't have experienced since before he came on to the Premier League scene as a 16 year-old.

"It is just different, I know I can relax a bit more. At home, you are looking over your shoulder and having to think to yourself, “What is going on there?” You don’t know who is watching you and you have to be careful with what you are doing all the time." he said.

Of course, Rooney has not just moved to the US to get away from the press following his every move, and wants to make a mark on the MLS as fellow ex-Premier League stars such as David Beckham, Robbie Keane and Steven Gerrard have.

He made his debut for his new club DC United on Saturday, and while he only played a little more than half an hour, it was clear to see that his class on the ball is still very much there.

"‘It’s your debut but you have to leave the nerves behind and help the team try to win. I felt I did that. I was pleased with my performance when I came on and we got three points, which was the most important thing. It was excellent." he commented.

Making such an impressive start when he is yet to reach full fitness means that it is likely that the former Man Utd man will certainly be able to leave his stamp on the league.