Wayne Rooney is desperate to stay with Manchester United - even as a squad player.

The Mirror says although he is set to be restored to the starting line-up for Thursday's Europa League tie at home to Ukrainian side Zorya Luhansk, he knows his days as United's main man are over.

But Rooney, who has two years left on his contract with a mutual option for a third, has no intention of leaving United simply because he can no longer be guaranteed a starting place.

Rooney - 31 next month - has been linked with a big-money move to Major League Soccer , but those close to him say he is determined to see out his United deal despite his new-found status as a squad player.

United's 4-1 win over Leicester City - their most impressive display under Mourinho - seemingly vindicated the decision to drop Rooney, who has looked out of sorts since the start of the season.

With more pace, penetration and purpose about their play without Rooney, the United skipper knows he must now come to terms with being rotated.