Ryan Giggs could be key to Wayne Rooney's future at Manchester United. Giggs was named to manager David Moyes' backroom team yesterday as player-coach.

The Independent says Giggs is viewed as a key individual in United's battle to get Rooney's career at the club back on track. The Welshman's recent eight-day Pro-Licence coaching assignment at the Under-20s World Cup in Turkey demonstrates his aspiration to manage, though United will be looking to him in the short term to play a vital role in persuading Rooney to seize the fresh start that Moyes is ready to give him.

With a dearth of players who can influence Rooney in the dressing room, the 27-year-old's relationship with Giggs means he is far more likely to stand a few home truths from him than any other player. Rooney's relationship with Rio Ferdinand, for example, is not as strong.