Wayne Rooney wants Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson to be his manager for his entire career. The pair's relationship came under intense scrutiny last week after Ferguson dropped Rooney from United's home defeat to Blackburn as punishment for going on a night out without permission over Christmas.

But Rooney told The Sun: "Sir Alex is the greatest manager of all time. Of course I would like to play under him for the rest of my career.

"He's a great manager and is a big reason why I joined Manchester United. If I could finish my career playing under Sir Alex then I won't have gone far wrong."

His words will go a long way to appease the United faithful after a turbulent fortnight.

Rooney added: "As I said before he is, in my eyes, the best ever. His success and his trophies speak for themselves. He's an incredible manager and has done so much for football and so much for my game as well.

"His every-day commitment to his job is what makes him stand out.

"He's in before the players every morning and leaves after you. His commitment, his desire to win and his dedication is incredible."