Former Stoke City and Aberdeen attacker Adam Rooney has defended his move to Salford City.

The Irish Independent says Rooney has insisted that Salford's ambition, rather than a £4,000-a-week pay cheque, is the reason behind his decision to swap playing for Aberdeen for life in England's fifth tier.

"It wasn't easy, but I just felt my time was coming to an end at Aberdeen and the opportunity came up at Salford," explained the 30-year-old Dubliner.

"I spoke to my family about it and I felt it would be a good opportunity for something new. The plans and ambitions Salford have really intrigue me."

Salford are part-owned by former Manchester United stars Phil and Gary Neville, Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.