Wayne Rooney was one-of-a-kind.
The English striker possessed a competitive streak like no other.
He always put the team above himself. He did absolutely everything to ensure his side were on the winning side every time he stepped on the pitch.
The legendary striker was even willing to risk his own health to help his side in any way possible.
He showed that in a game for Manchester United against West Bromwich Albion in 2011.
United were in a Premier League title battle with Manchester City as they travelled to the west Midlands on New Year’s Day.
It was very tight at the top and United knew a win would see them go above their rivals.
Rooney started up front and he opened the scoring in the third minute. He then set up Javier Hernandez's goal with 15 minutes remaining, which gave United a 2-1 lead.
Shortly after they took the lead, Rooney fell to the floor in agony after a sliding tackle by Chris Brunt.
WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - AUGUST 14: Chris Brunt of West Bromwich Albion challenges Wayne Rooney of Manchester United during the Barclays Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and Manchester United at The Hawthorns on August 14, 2011 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Rooney needed treatment and it was decided he could not continue. United could not replace him as they had already used their three substitutions.
The Englishman trudged off the pitch in pain and barely able to walk. It looked like his day was done.
But, after five minutes inside, Rooney then emerged back from the tunnel with the intention of coming back on and helping United see out the victory.
He was allowed to return to the pitch. He fought through the pain as he limped around the field and did everything he could to ensure United held on to the win.
It was a selfless act from Rooney and shows just how special he was. Watch a video of his heroics below...
Rooney managed to see out the game and helped United to a crucial three points.
Sir Alex Ferguson sung Rooney's praises after the match.
He said, per the Daily Mail: "I thought Wayne Rooney was absolutely out of this world today. He was fantastic, it was an unbelievable performance. He drove us on and one time he beat three players before the goalkeeper smothered his effort. That would have been an incredible goal."
He added: "Our doctor thought he’d be out for a couple of weeks but he came back on. He showed courage. I thought his performance was world class.â€
Rooney missed United's next game against Stoke three days later. He returned to action against Spurs 15 days after the injury.
There aren't many players willing to go through such pain to help their side, that's for sure.