United Star Striker Eyes Midfield Role to Finish Career

Manchester United star striker Wayne Rooney has indicated he could finish his career as a midfielder rather than remain a forward.

The 26 year old has played primarily as an out-and-out striker for most of his career. However, a number of injuries to key United midfielders in recent times have meant the former Everton man has often been deployed further down the pitch. The England striker is presently recovering from a thigh injury sustained during the Premier League game against Fulham but has admitted he could consider a permanent shift, tactically, in the future.

"I did my bit by dropping into a central midfield role when the team got hit by injuries last season. The manager thinks I can do a job there and, with the likes of Tom Cleverley, Anderson, Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher all missing games, he asked me to help out," the striker explained in his new book, My Decade in the Premier League, "When I get stuck into the action as a central playmaker, I love it. I get more of the ball, I'm involved loads. I even think about playing there permanently, but only later in my career."

Rooney adds he could only consider a permanent midfield role once he loses the sharpness needed to get away from defenders and added he was sure he could still influence the game from the midfield position. However, he did also admit he would always consider himself a striker.

Scholes Glad to See Competition at United

Meanwhile, Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has declared himself delighted at the competitive atmosphere in the Red Devils' dressing room, after the arrival of Robin van Persie, Shinji Kagawa, Nick Powell, Alexander Buttner and Angelo Henriquez this summer.

The 37 year old was forced out of retirement last season, when United went through an injury crisis and had several key players sidelined. Now, however, Scholes, who has signed a year-long extension, said he was finding it difficult to get a starting place.

"You always like to see new players come in, even if they're in your position. It's healthy for the team and exciting to play with the new players. We have got strength everywhere in the squad," ESPN quoted Scholes as saying.

"It all looks very healthy and, as players, we know when we get given our chance, we have to take it. If you don't, you'll be out of the team. Simple as that," he added.