Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Wayne Rooney has nothing to prove to anyone says Manchester United fan Rory McIlroy
RORY MCILROY has had his say on the ongoing Wayne Rooney saga - by saying he feels every right to be "angry and confused".
The 27-year-old is on the warpath with his club, following reports that his manager indicated that he could be used as back-up option to last season's top scorer Robin van Persie.
Chelsea have since made a bid for Rooney, however denied in a sternly-worded statement that David Luiz or Juan Mata would be included in an exchange deal.
The World No.2 golfer, who is an ardent Manchester United supporter believes Rooney has every right to feel aggrieved.
Speaking at his customary pre-tournament press conference ahead of the Open Championship at Muirfield, McIlroy said: "f I was Wayne I would be very confused too.
"He's had nine great seasons at Man United and, reading between the lines of what's being said, I don't think he needs to prove himself to anyone.
"I don't think he needs to prove himself to the new manager. I don't think he should be playing second fiddle to Van Persie.
"He's been a great player and a very loyal player for Man United.
"If I was him I'd probably be in the same position. So I hope it gets sorted pretty quickly and he obviously stays at Old Trafford."
McIlroy, who clinched the USPGA Championship in 2012, has failed to chalk up a winner on the tour this season after changing clubs.
Muirfield will be hosting the Open for the first time since 2002.