Spoils shared in first blockbuster of the season

Old Trafford staged its first goalless draw in over four years as Manchester United and Chelsea shared the spoils yesterday evening.

The surprise in the United starting line-up was the inclusion of Wayne Rooney, who was arguably United’s stand out player.

The 27 year old provided the hosts best effort by playing in international teammate Danny Welbeck, though his finish was poor much to the disappointment of the home fans, who rose once more when Rooney fired in shot that was comfortably dealt with by Petr Cech late on.

The point sees United rise to fourth place, though they can reclaim top spot with victory at Anfield on Sunday afternoon.

Meanwhile, Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has told Wayne Rooney that he must go public if he still wants to leave Old Trafford, according to the Guardian.

The England international has been the subject of two rejected bids from Chelsea, and now looks likely to remain in Manchester.

Elsewhere, David Moyes has denied that the club has made a bid for Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Gareth Bale, the Independent understands.

Spurs yesterday revealed that they were considering an offer that rivals the world record bid made by Real Madrid for last season’s PFA, FWA and Premier League player of the Year.