'People criticise really easily' - Evra hits out at Rooney detractors

Oct 3, 2012 5:45:00 PM

The left-back believes that the former Everton striker has been unfairly targeted and backs him to excel alongside Robin van Persie after assisting both goals against Cluj

Patrice Evra has praised Manchester United team-mate Wayne Rooney and expects the forward to show that he is just as good as new summer signing Robin van Persie.

Rooney missed around four weeks of the season after suffering a nasty-looking gash to his thigh against Fulham at the end of August, but the striker has since returned and assisted both of Van Persie’s international’s goals in the 2-1 win over Cluj on Tuesday night.

However, the 26-year-old has yet to score himself this season, in four appearances, with Van Persie notching five in six Premier League outings, and Evra has hit out at those criticising Rooney for supposedly below-par performances.


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"People criticise really easily," Evra told reporters.

"They were talking about Robin so much I thought we've just got one striker.

"Robin's an amazing player and that's good but people mustn't forget what Wayne Rooney has done for this club.

"He's a big, massive player and looked really sharp last night.

"When someone new comes, everyone is excited and forgets the old things. But Wazza will show it to everyone."

Rooney was also praised by strike partner Van Persie, who was keen to stress the important role the Englishman played in both his goals as United came from behind to seal the win.

"Rooney played very well," the Netherlands international added.

"He gave me two excellent assists. It is really good that he is back."

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