Ex-Premier League centre-back Joleon Lescott has backed Wayne Rooney in the much-discussed debate involving Michael Owen over who was better at 17.

The 2001 Ballon d'Or recipient ignited the discussion with a bold social media declaration . Both Owen and Rooney burst onto the scene as exceptional English prospects, though separated by five years, and subsequently forged illustrious careers.

Owen, who graced clubs including Liverpool and Real Madrid, boldly declared during a chat with ex- Manchester United team-mate Rio Ferdinand that he was better than Rooney was at 17 years of age. While the Red Devils' record scorer remained tactful when pressed to draw comparisons with Owen, former Manchester City defender Lescott's verdict is unequivocal, having faced both.

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