Fergie praise for ‘fantastic’ Rooney

ALEX FERGUSON has given an insight into how much Wayne Rooney loves his football — and Manchester United in particular.

The England striker, who could return to the side against Aston Villa today in the FA Cup after he was laid low by a virus, has indicated he would be keen to see out his career at Old Trafford.

The former Everton star was forced to skip the narrow victory over Birmingham in midweek but has now returned to training.

United boss Ferguson, who will make a late decision, has nothing but praise for Rooney.

“Wayne is at the right club,” he said. “He has been fantastic since he joined us. His enthusiasm is a breath of fresh air. He is the first player in the training ground every day.

“Sometimes he has breakfast with the staff and asks a million questions. He doesn’t get a million answers but Wayne is refreshing.

“I just have to make a decision as to how well he has recovered from the virus. He trained this morning and that is a big boost for us.”

Carlos Tevez is doubtful with an ankle injury but goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar will return after a groin problem.

Ferguson, whose side lost to Chelsea in the first FA Cup final at the new Wembley last year, insists the competition is important to the club.

They have won it five times under the Scot and 11 times overall.

“We have the best record in the competition so it means a lot to us, ” he said. “It is a massive experience even if you lose in the final.

“The question is where your priorities lie; the Champions League, the Premier League or the FA Cup?

“The FA Cup has to be our priority because our next game is in the competition.”

Ferguson is relishing the challenge of facing Villa after knocking them out last season. In fact they have almost become fated to meet in England’s top knockout competition.

Ferguson said: “Being drawn together four times in seven years is a bit curious.

“When I saw their name come out, I feared the worst. It is a difficult draw and a massive game for us.

“Villa’s form and our own form point to a really good Cup tie. Hopefully we can get through it.

“We enjoy going to the ground and perhaps we can recapture the atmosphere of the semi-finals we have played there.

“Villa Park has got a real football feel to it. The pitch is great as well.”

And Ferguson admitted he’s pleased with how the campaign is progressing so far.

“We have lost a couple of games but our consistency overall has been very good,” he said.

“We are with the leaders in the league and we are through to the knockout stage of the Champions League.

“I am looking for success in Europe as well as at home. We have the players and back-up to do it.”