Wayne Rooney explains ‘snubbing’ Man Utd fans during pre-season game vs Derby
Wayne Rooney has reassured Manchester United fans that he only ignored chants during their pre-season friendly against Derby because he was focused on the game.
Rooney, who scored the most goals in United's history during his legendary 13-year stint at Old Trafford, has been in charge of the Rams since November.
On Sunday the England icon came up against his former club in a pre-season clash at Pride Park, but when asked by the visiting crowd to give them a wave he did not respond.
After the match, however, he explained his reasoning for giving United fans the cold shoulder.
“Of course I respect the club. I love United and there will be times when I am watching them as a fan," Rooney told RamsTV.
"But my loyalty today has to go to Derby County and my players and that's all I was focusing on.”
Rooney's men were beaten on the day, with Tahith Chong and Facundo Pellistri's goals winning it for United.
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Colin Kazim-Richards pulled one back for the hosts, but it was unable to inspire a late comeback.
Nevertheless, Rooney was delighted to reunite with his old side despite the defeat.
He said: “Yeah of course, it’s a club I’ve got huge ties with, I spent 13 years there. It was nice to see some old faces, some old friends today.
“Unfortunately we didn’t get the result, but it was a good game, a competitive game. The fitness work the lads will have taken from it, but there were also really positive moments which pleased me."
Rooney is expecting United to mount a serious challenge for silverware next season, admitting that opposite number Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be under pressure to deliver it.
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"They are in a period now where fans will be wanting success, silverware. Ole and his coaching staff will be under pressure to deliver that," he said.
"You can see they are getting gradually better. I think they'll be in a place where they really will challenge next season."
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