Vidic: Rooney has fans' backing
Wayne Rooney’s central role in so many Manchester United glory nights will ensure he continues to receive the full backing of the club’s supporters should he remain at Old Trafford.
That is the view of skipper Nemanja Vidic, who was not in the least bit surprised at the ovation Rooney received during Monday night’s draw with Chelsea.
It may have been slightly odd that the visiting supporters were also singing Rooney’s name.
However, having ruled out the possibility of handing in an official transfer request, it now seems increasingly likely the 27-year-old will have to remain at United, at least until January.
“He has scored so many goals and won so many trophies. I expected him to receive a good reception,” said Vidic.
“The supporters have always supported the players.
“Wayne is no different.
“He has been supported throughout the years and I don’t think there was a question he would have been supported against Chelsea.”
But the issues that prompted Rooney to consider an exit from Old Trafford remain.
Whilst they have never been publicly revealed, it was established some considerable time ago that Rooney was deeply affected by Alex Ferguson’s stance towards him at the end of last season, in particular the Scot’s claim he had asked for a move.
In fact, Rooney had merely requested clarification of his position within the United squad given his omission from some key games, including the high-profile Champions League tie with Real Madrid in March.
And whilst Ferguson has now stepped down as manager, and at this present moment is not a presence at Old Trafford as he continues his recover from hip surgery, Rooney believes he will eventually exert sufficient influence to make the former Everton man’s situation uncomfortable.
United though have shown no indication of being willing to enter any discussion about Rooney’s future.
As the forward still has two years remaining on his contract, they hold most of the power.
And whilst some at United accept there is at least an argument for releasing Rooney, with a new manager at the helm and executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward taking over the player negotiating roles of departed chief executive David Gill, they also believe a hard line must be taken.
With this in mind, Woodward and Moyes do not want to be seen as buckling at the first sign of player pressure for fear of what that may bring over the long-term.
