Rooney: Play Me In The Centre

Last updated : 29 June 2009 By editor

Speaking to Oliver Kay in the Times, Rooney expresses his desire for a more central striking role:

"We've lost two key players and obviously I hope we can get a few players in.

"Between them Cristiano and Carlos scored a lot of goals for us last season and the season before, but I would like to think I'm capable of filling that gap. I've said before that, if I can play in my right position, I'm capable of doing that.

"I want to play in the position where I feel I'm best. A lot of people think I'm best as a centre forward. To play in a Champions League final and to play week in, week out for Manchester United is a privilege and it's something I'm very lucky to be doing, but I don't think playing on the wing I can express myself as much as I like to."

Rooney also comments on 'accommodating' Ronaldo and insists it was in United's best interests:

"I wouldn't say dirty work because Cristiano is such a talent, he can score from anywhere, so you try to accommodate him. As a team, we accommodated him because we knew he could win matches for us.

"Now that he has gone, we will have to score more goals between us, but I feel like I'm capable of scoring a lot of goals."