Shanghai-based Carlton Palmer says Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney should NOT consider a move to China.

Former England international Palmer, who coaches the children of former Chelsea stars Oscar, Ricardo Carvalho and Demba Ba at the Wellington College in Shanghai, insists that the CSL is no place for serious footballers.

Palmer told the Sunday Mirror: “I knew Rooney wouldn't come out here. His time at Manchester United may be coming to an end, but he still has so much to offer and he will stay in the Premier League.

“Wayne Rooney is someone who cares about football and still wants to play for his country. The cash on offer over here might be fabulous, but the standard of football isn't.

"I have no doubt that will change over the next few years, but the players who are already here are after one thing: money.

“The authorities need to get the infrastructure right. Until then they will only be able to attract mercenaries – and that isn't the way to build a league."