Paul Scholes leads tributes to Rooney after equaling record

Paul Scholes

Paul Scholes has led a number of former Manchester United stars in hailing Wayne Rooney after he moved level with Sir Bobby Charlton in their all-time goalscoring charts.

Rooney opened the scoring for United as they eased past Reading 4-0 in the FA Cup third round – to move the captain level with Sir Bobby on 249 goals for the club.

Speaking about the goal on BT Sport, former United midfielder Paul Scholes said: “Yes, it is a great achievement. It’s been a long time in coming.

“It’s great for him, we are so happy for him and hopefully he can go on and break the record. What a career, what a signing and his longevity as well. He’s still got the hunger and desire to score goals and win trophies for this football club.”

On the goal, he added: “Any player, even me, doesn’t care where it (the goal) comes as long as it hits the back of the net – it still means the same thing.”

Former Manchester United captain Bryan Robson was among those to salute Rooney on social media.

Robson, a three-time FA Cup winner with the club, wrote on Twitter: “Congratulations @WayneRooney for equalling Sir Bobby’s record 👍”

Phil Neville, a former team-mate of Rooney’s who played in his debut appearance against Fener in September 2004, said on his official Twitter account: “249 goals well done @WayneRooney.”