Rooney not listening to 'rubbish'

Wayne Rooney refuses to listen to the 'rubbish' criticism that has been aimed in his direction in recent months, preferring to focus on doing his best for Manchester United.

Rooney's place in the United starting XI has come under scrutiny in recent weeks with many suggesting that he should be dropped in favour of Marcus Rashford.

United have lost three of their last four games and, while they ended their losing streak in the EFL Cup tie against Northampton, Rooney's performance once again attracted negative comments.

The 30-year-old is aware of the criticism but insists he is only concerned about listening to what his coaches and team-mates have to say.

"I think I've had that my whole career - a little bit more of late, I think, but that's football," Rooney told MUTV.

"I listen to my coaches and my team-mates, the people around me, and I don't really listen to what a lot of people out there are saying because a lot of it is rubbish.

"I have to focus, work hard, of course, and I've done that throughout my career. I've worked hard and tried to do my best for the team."

Rooney was often deployed in a deeper midfield role by Louis van Gaal last season, but Jose Mourinho has made it clear he will be played up front.

"I've done that (played in different positions) throughout my career. I feel I can play in all positions but I think the manager has made it clear either I'll play up front or in the number 10 (role) and that's where he sees me playing," he said.

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