Rooney’s troubles this season, both on an off the field, have been well documented. His form was very poor in the first couple of months of the season, but when he returned from the fitness program in America, he had looked to have turned the corner somewhat. Although he wasn’t scoring, his touch and energy seemed to improving week on week. There was a general sentiment that his movement and vision was the reason for Berba’s resurgence in form, in that Rooney was creating space for the Bulgarian.
Has Wazza taken a step backwards again though? He may need game time to get sharp again but should he be starting at the moment on current form? The goals are clearly not there at the moment, with one outfield goal for the striker all season. But does his general play warrant a place in the side at the moment? I have to say, I was deeply unimpressed with Rooney’s display at Blackpool last week.
Not only was touch not there, but he had an unusual lack of energy and hunger. The was a stark and immediate improvement when he was replaced by Chicharito. Has Fergie’s attitude to Rooney changed also? It would have previously been unheard of for Rooney to be replaced after 55 minutes when we are losing.
There is no question of Berba being dropped at the moment, given his current form. It is Rooney whose place is under threat, and there is pretty intense pressure coming from Hernandez. The Mexican is in great form at the moment, scoring regularly when he plays and causing opposition defences all sorts of problems. He gives us an extra edge, in that he runs the channels really well and is always looking to get in behind the back four.
I don’t buy this theory that he is better used as a sub either and this concept is a step too far in the Solksjaer comparison. The Little Pea is more than capable of scoring when he starts the game, as he proved against Southampton yesterday. Is it time he was given a chance to start with Berba? I think so. We should be rewarding his good form and it may serve the team better, just at the moment. Rooney is clearly a quality player but just doesn’t look sharp or confident at the moment.
What do you guys think? Should Rooney be dropped and Hernandez given a chance?
Submitted by Glory Glory Man Utd
