David Moyes insists Wayne Rooney is focused on his game ahead of tonight’s Champions League clash with Real Sociedad.
The England striker’s summer transfer request is discussed in depth in Sir Alex Ferguson’s autobiography – due for release on Thursday – and the former United manager discussed some of the most eagerly anticipated aspects of his book yesterday.
However, despite speculation that Rooney could be affected by the revelations he has emerged relatively untouched from the transfer saga and Moyes is confident that the England striker is ready for the mid-week game.
“Wayne is completely focused on his football. He has been since the first day back in pre-season,” he said.
“He’s in good form – he’s looking after himself and playing well.”
Rooney has been United’s best player so far this season, notching five goals and five assists in ten appearances, a run of form that his manager will hope he can maintain as United face a Sociedad side who defeated Valencia at the weekend.
United have never faced the San Sebastian outfit, while their record against Spanish opposition does not make good reading – of the past ten games United have recorded just one victory.
Squad depletion could also have a negative effect on Moyes’ side, with doubts over captain Nemanja Vidic, while Rio Ferdinand, Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley are also injured.
Although Moyes is missing his two most experienced centre-backs, he can take some comfort from in-form Adnan Januzaj joining the squad after gaining Champions League eligibility as a home-grown player.
The gifted 18-year-old has lit up the Premier League with his past few performances and Moyes is expecting big things from the young Belgian.
“He’s an exciting young player making good progress all the time and he is someone who is going to play a big part in the future of Manchester United,” Moyes said.
“He’s an exceptional talent.”
Another boost comes in the shape of Darren Fletcher, who joined the main training session this morning despite suffering a long-term bowel condition, though it remains to be seen if he will be considered for selection.
Moyes has also demanded United put in a good performance for the full 90 minutes if they hope to get their finals tickets for the Champions League. The Scotsman blames lapses in concentration deep in the match for losses so far this season.
Image courtesy of Sky Sports via YouTube, with thanks.
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