Cole Backs Rooney Ahead Of Manchester Derby

Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole believes Wayne Rooney will be raring to go when he returns to action against Manchester City on Sunday.

Rooney has missed the Reds' last three games through suspension after being sent off during his side's 2-1 win over West Ham last month.

United manager Louis van Gaal has confirmed that the forward will start at the Etihad, and Cole believes the skipper will lead from the front on derby day.

“Wayne leads by example in the way he plays, he told MUTV. "People always speak about his work-rate and how hard he works in games. I’m not sure how vocal he is but people can take something from how he works as hard as he does. For him to come back for the derby is a massive plus and he’ll be really looking forward to it."

Asked whether or not it will be easy for the Reds hitman to make his comeback during such a high-profile fixture, Cole added that he thinks big-game experience will see Rooney through.

“It’s tough especially in a highly-charged game like a derby. Strikers want to score goals and, if you don’t, you feel you’re not contributing to the team. He’s coming back after missing out on three games so he may do things quicker than he’s expected to but, with his experience, he’ll get through the game nicely. No doubt, if he gets a goal, he’ll feel even happier," he added.