Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney admits he's at Old Trafford because of manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The anniversary of Fergie's appointment in 1986 is today - and Rooney feels he is lucky to have had seven years of expert guidance from the most successful manager this ­country has even seen.

Rooney said: "It's been a privilege for me to play for a manager of his stature.

"To celebrate 25 years here as manager is a great achievement. What he has done for this club and for all his players and the fans is incredible. In my eyes - and I'm sure many other people's too - he's the greatest ever.

"He's the main reason that I decided to sign here. All during my childhood growing up, I'd see him giving interviews on TV and saw how successful United were."