THERE were smiles all round today when Wayne and Coleen Rooney emerged from hospital with their new baby.

England striker Rooney appeared every bit the proud father as he carried his son Kai out of Liverpool Women's Hospital in a black cradle.

Coleen gave birth to Kai Wayne Rooney 2.20pm yesterday. The couple were said to be "thrilled with the wonderful addition to their family life".

Today, television star Coleen seemed sprightly when she climbed into a silver people carrier driven by Wayne's father, also Wayne.

Her mother Colette beamed with joy as she left with the young family.

Coleen wore a black and beige top with a black blazer and black trousers, while Wayne was wearing a cowboy shirt, jeans and a sleeveless puffer jacket.

The couple thanked staff as Wayne's father opened the car boot, which was full of flowers and balloons from well-wishers.

Photographers had been gathered at the hospital since Sunday afternoon, following rumours that Coleen had gone into labour.

Reporters this morning urged the parents to comment on their new arrival, but they declined.

The Manchester United star has been excused from playing for his side in their next fixture against CSKA Moscow at Old Trafford tonight.

Childhood sweethearts Coleen and Wayne have been together since their teens, and the England striker reportedly proposed on a petrol station forecourt in Liverpool.

News that Coleen, 23, was pregnant emerged earlier this year although rumours had regularly circulated since the couple's spectacular wedding on the Italian Riviera last summer.