Manchester United began their defence of their Premier League title with a convincing 4-1 victory over Swansea City at the Liberty Stadium in Saturday’s late kick-off.
Two goals each from Robin Van Persie and Danny Welbeck wrapped up the win for United in David Moyes first league game in charge but, as for the entirety of preseason, all the post-match talk was of Wayne Rooney.
The England international came on as a second half substitute and assisted the third and fourth goals for the visitors, though he cut a lonely figure as the rest of his teammates celebrated.
However, Moyes praised the 27 year olds commitment as he made his first club appearance since the 1-0 league defeat to Chelsea on May 5th.
Rooney has been linked with a move away from Manchester all summer, with Chelsea the front runners to secure his services having tabled two bids so far.
ESPN understand that the Blues are considering a final £40m offer for the former Everton man, though the bookmakers now believe that he will remain at Old Trafford.
Arsenal have also been rumoured to be reviving their interest in Rooney, not least due to their shock opening day defeat to Aston Villa.