Wayne Rooney
Rooney has thanked supporters for a positive reception against Chelsea.

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has expressed his relief at the reception he received upon returning to Old Trafford against Chelsea following months of uncertainty over his future with the Premier League champions.

The England international handed in a transfer request at the end of last season while Chelsea have had two bids rejected for the 27 year old in a summer transfer window during which Rooney has reportedly stated his desire to leave United.

Manager David Moyes remains adamant Rooney will not leave United this summer despite Jose Mourinho suggesting Chelsea will make a third bid for the ex-Evertonian before the end of the transfer window.

Rooney, who had not made a start for United since April due to doubts over his future and fitness problems after a pre-season which saw him leave the club's Far East tour with a hamstring problem, was understood to be concerned over his reputation among supporters after being linked with moves away.

However, after getting a warm reception during his cameo appearance against Swansea City, Rooney's return to the Theatre of Dreams from the start against Chelsea was embraced by the United faithful who continue to back him despite the forward publically refusing to declare where his future lies.

And Rooney wrote on his official Facebook page: "It was an unbelievable reaction from the fans, so thank you. I really appreciate your support. It means a lot."

Mourinho, who has hinted at making a third bid for Rooney before the end of the summer transfer window, has called on the player to end speculation regarding his future by handing in a transfer request.

Reports suggest however that Rooney has made his peace with that fact United will not agree to sell him to Chelsea or any other Premier League suitor and will not hand in a formal transfer request, instead remaining to fight for his place as the spearhead of the club's attack.