Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal claims he can improve any player including Rooney

Wayne Rooney and Louis Van Gaal

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has praised captain Wayne Rooney as an example for all teammates to follow. Rooney has scored 11 goals in 15 games for club and country this season. This is the 29-year-old’s second best season in terms of goals after at the juncture of 15 games.

Van Gaal talked about how Wayne Rooney’s reputation precedes him and that he is different from what people generally talk about. The Dutchman has also previously stated that the England captain is the only automatic choice in his starting XI.

“Before I came here, of course, I had heard of his reputation,” said Van Gaal.

“But, from the first day, he was not the Wayne Rooney that people had talked about.

“He was, in my eyes, a great example in training and, of course, he has achieved a certain level. I think he shall always play with me — although, when he is in a bad moment, maybe I can be convinced to change him.”

The ‘Iron Tulip’ said that the former Everton man libves for Football and also claimed that he should be given credit for making him his captain which helped England manager Roy Hodgson make his choice.

“But he is my captain now. He is the men who sets the example for the other players. So I’m very pleased.

“I have the impression that he lives for football and that he likes being the captain of Manchester United.”

He added: “Of course, being captain of England helps him to be a better captain of United.

“He has more experience. But I have to remind everyone that I put him first as captain. Roy Hodgson followed my advice.

He signed off by saying he can improve any player.

“I can make every player better. I’m sorry. That’s arrogant, but I can.”