Ferguson: Rooney wants to leave

In all the years I have covered press conferences involving Sir Alex Ferguson I cannot recall one where he looked so miserable. Upset even.

He must have expected a million questions so had prepared a statement, and what a remarkable statement it turned out to be.

In 10 minutes Sir Alex used this press conference to put the ball squarely back in Wayne Rooney’s half.

“In previous talks about his future Wayne had said he wanted to sign a life contract, stay at this club for the rest of his career – the biggest club in the world,” Sir Alex told a press conference.

“Things became clear when his agent intimated that he would not be signing a new contract.

“Wayne said he wanted to leave. I was shocked. I couldnt believe it.” Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United manager

“Wayne said he wanted to leave. I was shocked. I couldnt believe it.”

Rumours
The Reds manager spoke out after days of rumours involving Rooney and his future at Old Trafford. He revealed that his star striker had made it plain that he no longer wanted to stay at the club.

“It is terribly disappointing. I told him that he had to think hard, that he had to honour and respect the traditions of this club and behave properly, professionally.”

And commenting on speculation that here had been a breakdown in relations between the two, Sir Alex added: “I have never had an argument with Wayne Rooney at any time.

“The door is always open for Wayne because he is such a good player. We have done a lot for Wayne, professionally, in his private life and other matters.

“We cannot understand why he would want to leave.”