Van Persie Wants Rooney To Stay

Robin van Persie is keen for unsettled forward Wayne Rooney to remain at Manchester United, with the Dutchman admitting that one of the reasons why he moved to Old Trafford was to team-up with the talented Englishman.

Rooney is wanted by one of United's main title rivals, Chelsea, who have made two unsuccessful bids for the 27-year-old.

Rooney's United future has been unclear since the end of last season but Van Persie is in no doubt that he wants his team-mate to remain at the club.

He told The Sun: "Everyone wants Wayne to stay and deep down I think he feels the same.

"One of the reasons I joined Manchester United was to play with Wayne.

"I hope he stays. Not only is he a great goalscorer, he does so much work across the pitch.

"He hates to lose and that's why you see him one minute pressing for goal, the next minute defending ferociously. He is an asset to any team.

"He will come good again. He is a strong lad."