It's easy to go and get a coffee! - Rooney opens up on life in the USA

Wayne Rooney has spoken candidly about his time in the USA since moving to MLS club DC United.

Wayne Rooney in action for DC United Source: AAP

The former Manchester United star has settled into his new club in Washington remarkably quickly.

Were it not for the form of a former Red Devils teammate Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the MLS reviews would probably be off the charts.

Even so, DC United were coming last in the Eastern Conference when he arrived, but Rooney has guided them to fourth place - with 14 goals - to earn a spot in the MLS play-offs.

Speaking to BBC Sport's Football Focus, Rooney revealed the standard of football is higher than he anticipated.

"I knew it was a tough league, a physical league, but I think the ability of the teams in the league and ability of individual players is a lot higher than maybe I thought when I first came," Rooney said.

"It is not what people are used to back home but it is not relaxed.

"There is pressure to perform and for me to come out and perform, and I am enjoying that pressure."

He also pointed out the difference in profile both he and the sport have compared to back in the UK, resulting in an enjoyable anonymity.

"It is a bit more relaxing for us as a family. If you want to go to the supermarket, or pop out and get a coffee, then it's quite easy to do," he said.

"At times in England it could be a bit difficult but here not that many recognise you, or they are really respectful when they see you.

"I'm not saying life was terrible there, but football is the main sport back home.

"Everyone knows you and you do have to plan things a bit more, you can't be spontaneous and pick the kids up from school and go and do whatever the kids want to do."

Turning back to the Premier League, the former England captain gave his thoughts on boyhood club Everton and Manchester United, saying: "I am obviously disappointed with the way it ended at Everton but it has opened up a new chapter for me here and I'm really enjoying it.

"The time at Everton last season was a bit frustrating at times, different managers, playing different positions.

"But that is part of football and sometimes you have to go through the more difficult moments to get the great moments.

"Obviously they [Manchester United] are going through a difficult period at the minute but Jose Mourinho is very experienced and I think some players have to do a little bit better.

"In my experience, I have never seen or heard of a player not wanting to play in the game because they have had a falling out with the manager.

"I don't think any player, certainly at Manchester United, will be not playing for Jose, I'm sure they're all working hard behind the scenes to get results."