The England striker was subbed after 67 minutes
Wayne Rooney was left angered by Louis Van Gaal’s decision to substitute him after 67 minutes on his return for Manchester United.
The 30-year-old was making first start for United since suffering a knee injury in February, which led to Marcus Rashford being afforded the chance to make his debut, and subsequently impress the Old Trafford faithful.
And the 18-year-old netted the only goal of the game, in the first half, to condemn Aston Villa to relegation, but Rooney wasn’t completely content with just picking up three points.
“He was angry on me because he wanted to play 90 minutes,” said van Gaal. “But you could see he was losing balls – he hadn’t played for a long time and three days training is not enough.
“He was very good in the first half but not so much in the second. It is not surprising because the rhythm in the Premier Leaugue is very high and he has not built up his capacity. But I am not upset with him, it shows good spirit when you want to play 90 minutes.”
Rooney in disguise
And upon his comeback, Rooney was taunted by Villa fans, as they suggested the England striker had put on weight during his absence.
“Are you Gaby in disguise” was aimed at the former Everton striker, in reference to Villa’s club captain, who has been ordered to go on a diet.
Rooney hasn’t scored since the February 2, in a 3-0 home win over Stoke City, and will hope to find some form ahead of this summer’s European Championships, with a number of English strikers looking to take his place in France.
