Rooney warns critics not to write off United

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is confident his side can still secure the Premier League title this season.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s side were embarrassed by Manchester City in October, losing 6-1 at Old Trafford to Roberto Mancini’s men, with their city rivals currently five points clear at the top of the table.

However, the Red Devils’ forward has stated that he is not worried by their neighbours’ momentous start to the campaign, ensuring that United will never give up as they look to win their 20th league crown.

“It’s always dangerous to write off Manchester United. It has happened a few times and we have usually proved everybody wrong,” Rooney told The Sun.

“It was said last year, because at this time last season people were saying we were playing badly and no one believed we would be champions.”

“But we got our heads down, worked hard and started winning games even though we weren’t at our best – and slowly we got better and better.”

“In the end we won the league again, our 19th title, and that’s why I believe we will come out on top again this season.”

“We have a good enough squad and if we are in a good position come the New Year we will do what we always do – we will push on again.”

“We know what it takes to win the league, we have that knowledge, that experience and that’s something City just don’t have. So I’m not worried.”

“They have started well and they look strong so, yes, it is a good challenge for us. As United players we have to stand up to it and show what we are capable of – show we are capable of winning the league again.”

“And people should remember we have the opportunity to put that 6-1 right when we go to City later this season. We’ll be fully focused on that.”

The 26-year-old has been used as a central midfielder on occasion during this campaign due to injuries within the squad, and Rooney revealed he is always happy to take on a new role for the good of the team, but conceded he is no Paul Scholes.

“I don’t think there will ever be another Scholesy. The manager has asked me to play in there a few times up to now this season and I am happy to take the role on if he thinks that is a benefit for the team,” he said.

“To be honest, I feel playing there has been good for me as a player, as part of my development.”

“I feel I have learnt a lot from it and I am confident that if I ever was to make the change to an out-and-out midfielder, I could cope with the role.”

“I like the fact that you are constantly involved and get more touches on the ball and are able to spray passes around. But first and foremost I am a striker, I have played there all my career and ideally that’s where I want to play.”