Wayne Rooney has spoken publicly for the first time about his desire to leave Manchester United, blaming his disillusionment on Sir Alex Ferguson playing him out of position following the arrival of Robin van Persie. The England striker said he felt undervalued and mistreated after van Persie's signing from Arsenal, and grew frustrated at being deployed in midfield instead of his preferred centre-forward role.
Rooney stated that he had raised his concerns with the club, and that he felt entitled to play in his natural position after nearly a decade at Old Trafford. 'Everyone at the club knew where I wanted to play and I think that's why I was disappointed. I got told to play in midfield and I didn't want to,' he said. He acknowledged that his form suffered as a result, adding that he had to be 'selfish' for his career.
The 27-year-old was the subject of two bids from Chelsea last summer, but Manchester United refused to sell him to a rival. Rooney confirmed that the club made their stance clear, but he would not be drawn on whether he now wants to stay. He said he is 'happy' and 'settled' under new manager David Moyes, but would only commit to further discussions behind the scenes.
Rooney also offered his backing to England manager Roy Hodgson, saying the Football Association made 'the right decision' in appointing him ahead of Harry Redknapp, despite initially wanting Redknapp for the job. He described Hodgson as the England manager he has enjoyed playing for the most.
