Paul Scholes: Record man Rooney as hungry as ever to win trophies at United

ByEurosport

Updated 07/01/2017 at 14:08 GMT

Paul Scholes has paid tribute to fellow Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney after he equalled Sir Bobby Charlton’s club record of 249 goals in the FA Cup third-round match with Reading.

Manchester United's English striker Wayne Rooney celebrates scoring the opening goal

Image credit: AFP

Speaking at half-time as a pundit on BT Sport with his former club leading 2-0, Scholes was gushing in his praise for Rooney as his volley from Juan Mata’s cross on seven minutes brought him level with Charlton, as the club icon looked on from the main stand at Old Trafford.

At 31, it is Rooney's 543rd appearance for United. He joined United from Everton on a six-year deal for around £27m in 2004 and has managed the feat in 215 fewer games than Charlton.

Transfers

Arsenal draw up summer transfer shortlist after Bayern defeat - Paper Round

5 hours ago

Rooney has won the Champions League, five Premier Leagues, the Club World Cup, two League Cups and the FA Cup at United over the past 13 years. He is also England's all-time leading scorer with 53 goals from 119 games, prompting praise from Scholes.

What a career, what a signing he has been. It's a great achievement for Wayne. We're happy for him. He still has the hunger and desire to win trophies for this football club. Let’s hope he goes onto break the record in the second half.

Scholes was one of United’s most prominent critics as they struggled for style and consistency under the management of David Moyes and Louis van Gaal following Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013.

But he feels Jose Mourinho has brought United back to the level they should be at in recent weeks, illustrated by their movement against Championship side Reading, managed by former United centre-half Jaap Stam.

“They have struggled to handle the movement of Rashford, Martial and Wayne,” said Scholes. “It could be four or five.

United have looked like the real United of old over the past six weeks, wanting to get forward and score goals all the time. It is difficult to play against quality like this.

Transfers

Man Utd, Liverpool in 'bidding war' for Brazilian teen Nunes - Paper Round

Yesterday at 07:53

Transfers

Casemiro leads 10-man group set to leave Manchester United - Paper Round

17/04/2024 at 07:09

Transfers

Man Utd players delaying decision on future due to Ten Hag uncertainty - Paper Round

16/04/2024 at 06:15

Join 3M+ users on app

Stay up to date with the latest news, results and live sports

Download

Scan me