Wayne Rooney thanks Man Utd fans for sticking by him

(Photo: Tsutomu Takasu)

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has thanked the club’s “brilliant” fans for helping him put his difficult spell behind him.

The 25-year-old England forward sparked a huge outcry when he stunned supporters by declaring his intention to quit Old Trafford before having a sudden change of heart and signing a new five-year deal with the Red Devils.

Rooney, who has recently returned to action following a lengthy spell on the sidelines, has been struggling to rediscover his top form having not scored from open play for United since March.

But the United star believes his hard work in training will soon pay dividends and praised the club’s fans for continuing to show their support for him.

“It has been a hard few months for me and the United fans,” said Rooney. “But they have been brilliant since I signed the new deal. They can see the desire I have got to play and win. They have been fantastic for me and I thank them for that.

“When you are injured or suspended it is the worst time, especially coming to the end of a season.”

He added: “You have worked hard from the beginning of the season and you want to play in the later games to help the team be successful. I just picked up an injury at the wrong time.”