Sir Alex Ferguson Lauds Manchester United's In-Form Striker Wayne Rooney

Following the mega-money £80 million sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid, the goal-scoring responsibility at Manchester United was deemed to fall on the shoulders of Wayne Rooney, and manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that he is delighted with the stocky striker's productivity.

Rooney, 24, scored the first of United's goals in the 3-1 win over Hull City, and played provider twice. The England international has now struck 13 times in the Premier League, and Ferguson beamed to Sky Sports: "Wayne was fantastic on Sunday. That was the Wayne Rooney we know."

He added: "He had a quiet spell for two or three matches but he was explosive at Hull. He was a constant threat. That is the kind of form we are hoping for because when he is playing like that, he is hard to handle."

Ferguson, though, was swift to claim that while Rooney is more than capable of leading the line for United, it is imperative he is amply supported.

"Wayne can step forward and be the main man but there are a few who have to step forward in that respect."

The Red Devils currently occupy second spot in the Premier League and are five points behind division leaders Chelsea, albeit with a game in hand.

"We are coming to the time now. The challenge is there. The league is so tight and teams are taking points off each other that you don't expect.

"It means a consistent run from someone will give them a great chance. Our experience of run-ins is good. We know we can handle that part.

"The important thing is to beat Wigan tomorrow [Wednesday] which would put us into the position I hoped we could get to, a couple of points off the leaders coming into the new year."

Alan Dawson, Goal.com UK