Wayne Rooney has hit back at comments from Paul Scholes suggesting that the Manchester United striker could be past his best. The Red Devils legend apparently questioned the forward’s performances, but Rooney bit back at claims that he has already peaked by calling the former midfielder’s comments ‘strange’ and suggesting that he may have upset a few heads at Old Trafford.
I actually disagree with both of them.
I’ll start with why I disagree with Rooney. First of all, there is nothing strange about a genuine legend of the game questioning one of the supposed highest earners in football – especially when Rooney has had a couple of mediocre campaigns in his time at the club.
That, however, has been due to his ability to play in a number of positions, I think. Sir Alex Ferguson played him on the left of midfield, in the hole behind the striker and up front on his own. Continuity is something that breeds success, and I don’t think Rooney has been given the platform to play to his best.
Now why I disagree with Scholes. Rooney had a magnificent campaign last time out, scoring 19 goals and claiming 15 assists in 38 games. His tally from the past three seasons combined stands at 69 goals in 120 games and I think he is growing with experience.
Obviously Scholes is entitled to an opinion and Rooney has the right to defend himself, but I think there are holes in both arguments.