Despite falling out of favour with Manchester United and England, the Toffees boss says the striker is still among the top players in the game
Wayne Rooney remains "one of the best in his position", according to Everton manager Ronald Koeman.
Rooney rejoined Everton from Manchester United this month and has hit the ground running in pre-season, scoring goals against Gor Mahia and Genk.
The 31-year-old forward fell out of favour at United last season, making just 15 Premier League starts, and has not featured for England since November.
But Koeman does not believe Rooney's quality has waned, telling Everton's official website: "He has a lot of experience.