Rooney: I Have Got A Lot Of Football Left

Wayne Rooney admits he is facing a "new challenge" in his career at present, but the Manchester United captain insists he has got "a lot of football left."

The Reds striker, who turns 31 on Monday, spoke to reporters after the goalless draw at Anfield, a game Rooney says was important not to lose, especially with more tough tests to come in the next week or so against Fenerbahce, Chelsea and Manchester City.

Rooney has begun the last four United matches on the bench but maintains he will be ready whenever called upon and has plenty to offer the team.

"I like to think I can play every game, but obviously it's the manager’s decision and I respect that. I will be ready when I’m needed," he said. "I’m 31 next week and I’ve got a lot of football left."

Asked if the current situation was the biggest challenge of his career to date, he replied: "No, I think it's football – I’ve started through all my career and this is a new challenge, it's a new period. Of course I want to play. I just have to keep working to get into the team and I’m sure my chances will come. Then it is up to me to take them."

The point at Liverpool means United lie seventh in the table, but remain well within reach of of the leading pack and Rooney is convinced the Reds can mount a strong title challenge this term under Jose Mourinho.

"I think we'll be challenging this season - we’ve still got that belief and it is even stronger after working with this manager and the players over the last few months," he revealed. "I think we’ve got a fantastic squad, that is ready and capable of challenging.

"I’m sure over the next few weeks or couple of months we will have our way of playing, and it will be the manager's way of playing. It was a good point at Liverpool, but really we were a bit disappointed we didn't take the couple of chances that came our way.

"This was the toughest game before the Europa League on Thursday then we’ve got Chelsea and City. It is good for us to have those games in this period and, if we can come out of them with positive results, it can be the start of something for us this season.”