LVG: Rooney has lost pace, but it’s not a problem

Mark Holmes
Wayne Rooney: Lost pace not a problem, says Louis van Gaal

Wayne Rooney: Lost pace not a problem, says Louis van Gaal

Louis van Gaal says Wayne Rooney has adapted to losing his pace – and has an attitude which is an example to everyone at Manchester United.

Rooney has faced intense criticism for his performances this season but ended an 11-month wait for an away goal in the Premier League with the third in United’s 3-0 win at Everton on Saturday.

Speaking after the game, Van Gaal lauded the virtues of his captain and said the pace he has lost is not a problem, with Rooney still managing to get behind the Everton defence to finish well for his goal.

“I think Wayne’s strength of character is an example for everybody, not only for his fellow players but also for other players from other clubs and also for the manager, because he is a very social human being and he has a professional attitude,” Van Gaal said.

“And I could not imagine that when I was the coach of the Dutch national team before I came to United. I had heard other things, but he has shown a fantastic attitude and I am very happy that he scored.

“People question whether he has lost pace, yes, but he is always running in behind at the right moment and that is more important.

“I [when Van Gaal played] was not so fast as Wayne and Wayne is not so fast as Anthony Martial, but when you go at the right time then you are always faster than your opponent.”

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