Wayne Rooney has already stated his desire to capitalise
on Cristiano Ronaldo’s proposed exit from Old Trafford, by
expressing his displeasure at being forced to play on the
wing.
Ronaldo’s deployment as a striker has seen Rooney pushed wide by
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, but the Portuguese
star’s imminent £80m move to Real Madrid means the Englishman is
likely to revert to his preferred role.
Rooney has been used as an out-and-out striker for England by
Fabio Capello, and his return of eight goals in World Cup
qualifying to date has quantified his comfort in the position.
Now, Rooney has stated his case for being used in the same
capacity once more for United.
"The position I play for England is the one I most like to play
in," said Rooney. "I've not played that for a while at United.
"It's the manager's choice but I have always said that my best
position is up front. When you're playing out on the left you have
responsibilities in terms of defending.
"That does take some of your energy away when you're attacking.
With England you don't have to get back so much. It's a team
game and I love playing for the team, but maybe I have to try to be
more selfish in where I want to play and what role I want to
play."