Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is backing Wayne Rooney for the Footballer of the Year gong. "I don't think anyone could argue with him as Footballer of the Year. He's certainly been consistent enough," the Ferguson told The Observer.

The Scot added: "Wayne is actually starting to enjoy playing on the left now. He's still scoring goals, but in a different way.

"Where he eventually settles down depends on the make-up of the rest of the team, but he's capable of playing anywhere in a forward position and the great thing is he's happy to make any position work.