Fergie: Fantastic that Wayne has got his determination back

Sir Alex Ferguson, who has been at United’s last two home games, has sung the praises of Wayne Rooney following his performance against Bayer Leverkusen.

“Wayne’s performance was fantastic,” said Ferguson. “I was pleased to see that. He’s got his energy back, his determination to attack players. It was all very encouraging for me. Being a director I am delighted to see that. He’s back to what we always remember him as. We’ll have a fantastic chance because in Van Persie and Rooney you have forwards who can win you games.”

Towards the end of last season, Rooney was dropped from the starting XI and Ferguson revealed that this was down to his form. He also confirmed that Rooney has expressed his desire to leave the club.

With United refusing to sell Rooney to Chelsea and no other club interested in signing him, there have been suggestions that the club is prepared to offer him a new contract.

Ferguson’s endorsement of Rooney would suggest that he is keen to build bridges, if only publicly, to help encourage the player to commit his future to United.