Jones Backs Rooney To Prosper In Wake Of Criticism

Phil Jones thinks Wayne Rooney will rise above the criticism he has faced in recent weeks.

Rooney's form and private life has been under scrutiny by the press but he responded by scoring Manchester United's first goal in a 4-0 Europa League win over Feyenoord.

It was the 31-year-old's 39th goal in European club football, taking him one clear of the previous best held by Ruud van Nistelrooy.

And Jones has given his team-mate the thumbs-up and backed him to overhaul the record of another United great.

The United defender said: "It's been difficult for him but it's water off a duck's back for him too.

"He's dealt with that throughout his career. He's shown that it doesn't bother him. He put in a good performance and got his goal."

Rooney is close to overtaking Sir Bobby Charlton's record as United's record goalscorer and is just one behind the World Cup-winner's total of 249.

Jones added: "I'm buzzing for him.

"He's a world-class player, has been for many years, a legend at the club. I'm just delighted for him. He's a great lad off the pitch as well.

"I hope he scores on Sunday. He's got all the talent in the world, so let's hope he keeps scoring the goals."

Credit: Skysports.com