Rooney Hopes For Falcao Scoring Run

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has backed Radamel Falcao to continue his scoring run over the festive period following the Colombian's goal against Aston Villa last weekend.

The striker has quickly become a fans' favourite since his loan move to Old Trafford from Monaco in the summer, a reputation he enhanced by netting the Reds' equaliser at Villa Park to cancel out Christian Benteke's first-half opener.

Speaking on the eve of United's Boxing Day encounter with Newcastle, Rooney has explained why all of the club's new signings have adapted quickly to life at Old Trafford and welcomed Falcao's goal-scoring prowess.

“It was great for Falcao to get on the scoresheet, and it was a great header," Wayne told MUTV. "I’m pleased for him, and I hope he continues that into the next few games.

“It must be strange for the new players to have more games than ever over Christmas, having had the time off previously. They have to adapt and be ready for it, while being aware of the fixture list. I’m sure they’ll be prepared for the upcoming games."

Louis van Gaal's men take on Newcastle on Boxing Day, a fixture Rooney recalls from last season when the Magpies took three points from Old Trafford. However, the in-form striker believes the Reds' encouraging home form will see them through this time around.

“It was a blow," he conceded. "We had a few bad results at home last season but thankfully our form at home is a lot better this season. It’s important to us because we want to make sure we keep winning our home games.

"They’ve had their highs and lows – they started badly and there were a few shouts for Alan Pardew to lose his job. I’m happy he wasn’t sacked and I think they went on to win five or six games in a row. They haven’t picked up as many points as they would have liked to in the last few games, but it’s always a tough game against Newcastle.

“I don’t think losing to Sunderland will affect them too much. It was a big loss for them in a derby, especially with the last-minute winner but they’re coming to Old Trafford to play Manchester United, so they’ll be ready for it. I think we’ll have to be at our best to win the game."