Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists his relationship with Wayne Rooney is strong following their FA Cup win at Manchester City.

Ferguson claimed he had no problem with Rooney and warned the striker he had to learn to get used to negative headlines.

He told ITV: "There's absolutely no problem with Wayne what Wayne has got to realise is the press have got another (Paul) Gascoigne and he's got to suffer with that."

However, he later told the post-match press conference that he believes Rooney is saddled with the curse of Paul Gascoigne and every flaw in his character will be used against him.

"Wayne Rooney is a headline-maker, good or bad," said Ferguson.

"It is the situation that existed many years ago with Paul Gascoigne.

"We have seen the good stuff today but any flaws will be absolutely annihilated by the press. That is what they are like. That is what we are dealing with.

"Today was a magnificent performance."