Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson doesn't believe Cristiano Ronaldo's departure has anything to do with Wayne Rooney's form this season. Rooney struck all four goals in yesterday's 4-0 victory over Hull City.

Sir Alex feels Rooney's form is more due to his growing maturity and developing game rather than him stepping to the fore following the sale of Ronaldo.

"I don't think that comes into it at all," he told MUTV. "He's always a main man. He's very seldom left out and he's always been a main player for us. I thought he did well today alongside Michael Owen. There was good movement and hunger. They did well."