Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher believes that Wayne Rooney has a ‘bigger problem’ staying in the Manchester United line-up than for England.
Rooney has come under the spotlight so far this season, as the pressure continues to build on him to keep his place in Jose Mourinho’s side.
With such fierce competition for places and great talent on the bench waiting to play, the 30-year-old needs to improve his overall performances and quickly.
Mourinho insisted when he arrived at the club that the England captain would play in an advanced role for him and not in midfield. However, with Juan Mata, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Henrikh Mkhitaryan amongst others arguably all warranting more playing time, Rooney could face the possibility of being pushed down the pecking order if he’s not careful.
Carragher made his opinion clear on Monday Night Football, as seen in the tweet below, while Phil Neville defended the former Everton man by insisting that he has to play and has the flexibility to play in different positions.
WATCH: Jamie Carragher believes Wayne Rooney faces a battle to stay in the Man United team. #MNF https://t.co/SLudYWTFEo
— Sky Sports MNF ?? (@SkySportsMNF) September 12, 2016
However, it’s fair to say that Neville’s opinion wasn’t the most popular amongst United fans and those listening to his analysis, with many insisting that Rooney should be dropped.
It’s unclear at this stage as to whether Mourinho is ready to do so, but the way in which his United side are set up and with Rooney slowing their play down in his role between the lines, it can be argued that he’s doing more damage than good to the team unless something is tweaked.
I’d say this is his best position these days: @SkySportsMNF pic.twitter.com/QFclLrqso2
— Footy Accumulators (@FootyAccums) September 12, 2016
@SkySportsMNF he can play is so many, shame he can’t play very well in so many
— callum (@callum_jonesrj) September 12, 2016
@SkySportsMNF @SkySports Best position is left back….in the changing room
— Paul Marshman (@MarshmanPaul) September 12, 2016