A unified dressing room was the image portrayed by Michael Carrick as he declared that striker Wayne Rooney is ‘one of us’ after the Reds’ victory against Swansea.
Amidst a barrage of rumours and speculation surrounding his future Rooney opened the season with a poised display that was void of any angst.
A stunning fourth goal from Danny Welbeck was set up by Rooney and, while the striker failed to join in the celebrations, Carrick was keen to rally behind the England star.
“He’s one of us and we all stick together,” Carrick told the Guardian
“When we’re on the pitch we fight for each other and do what we can for Wayne. He’s certainly part of that.
“I thought he came on and looked good. He set up two goals and that’s what he’s all about. He’s a real threat.”
Rooney came on as a second half substitution and, despite a tumultuous summer period, received a positive reaction from the United fans.
“He’s given this club an awful lot so the fans support him and we support him. As I said, we stick together. It was a good day,” he said.
Phil Jones was also quick to echo Carrick’s camaraderie and praised the fans’ reaction to Rooney.
“That was great. He is a fantastic player and he did well when he came on. He came on and did the job. He did well,” he said.
Image courtesy of Saadick Dhansay, with thanks
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