Sir Alex Ferguson is concerned by Wayne Rooney's dip in
goalscoring form, but still expects his 'big game player' to shine
in Sunday's clash with Arsenal.
The England striker has eight goals so far this season, but has cut
a frustrated figure since his last strike against Manchester City
on 9 December.
"He is a big-game player," said Sir Alex. "You could say, in a lot
of cases, it was bad luck. In the cup game against Villa he had
nine attempts at goal.
"In the last game (also against Villa) he had a fantastic strike
which hit the bar. He just needs a little break. I'm concerned by
it."
Only a combination of near misses, outstanding saves and battered
woodwork have contrived to deny Rooney a hatful of goals in recent
weeks.
The Gaffer wants Rooney to start picking up a succession of single
goals rather than the sporadic gluts in which they have come so far
this term.
"What he needs to do is get these odd goals," conceded Sir Alex.
"He has had spells of two and three. He needs to get into scoring a
goal a game. If he can do that he would make a big difference in
the title run-in."
Despite his lack of fortune in front of goal, Rooney's application
levels have never wavered below outstanding all season - a trait
which delights the Boss.
"It is an example of a great player. He is prepared to work as hard
as everyone else. It tells the rest of the players 'although I'm a
great player, I work as hard as anyone'. It's a fantastic attitude
and example.
"He is working his socks off the boy. He has a terrific attitude
and we are happy with that."