Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney believes criticism of his recent performances are “rubbish,” and is ready to perform in the best way possible for the team. Rooney (30) has been criticized several times over the last two seasons for his constant sub-par performances. Some believe that Rooney’s best days are behind him and the captain should step aside now.
Manchester United suffered three defeats in just eight days, with the captain performing below par in all the matches. The three-match losing streak came to an end when United defeated Northampton Town 3-1 in the EFL Cup. However, Rooney’s performance was still scrutinized by majority of Red Devils fans out there.
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“I don’t really listen to what a lot of people out there are saying because a lot of it is rubbish,” he told to Manchester United’s official website on Thursday. He also revealed that he only listens to the people around him about his performances, “I listen to my coaches and my teammates, the people around me.”
Rooney also said that he is used to the criticism now because it has been a part of his football career. “I think I’ve had that (criticism) my whole career- a little bit more of late, I think, but that’s football,” he said.
The England international accepted that he will need to focus more on his game, “I have to focus, work hard, of course, and I’ve done that throughout my career. I’ve worked hard and tried to do my best for the team.”
The Manchester United skipper is just three-goal short of Sir Bobby Charlton’s club record of 249 goals. However, the recent criticism might force manager Jose Mourinho to push Rooney out of the starting XI.
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Manchester United are set to face defending champions Leicester City next Saturday in a league match. After consecutive league defeats against city rivals Manchester City and Watford, Mourinho and his players are expected to give their best in order to kick-start their Premier League campaign.
However, Rooney feels he can be used anywhere but the manager wants him to play up front. “I've done that [played in different positions] throughout my career," Rooney told MUTV. “I feel I can play in all positions but I think the manager has made it clear either I'll play up front or in the number 10 [role] and that's where he sees me playing,” he added.
Managing with three defeats and only one win in September, Manchester United will meet Manchester City again on Oct 26 in an EFL Cup tie.“For me, I think it's the perfect draw," said the skipper.
He also feels it is the perfect scenario for Manchester United to avenge the derby defeat earlier this month, “With what happened in the league, it's a chance for us to get revenge for that result,” he concluded.
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