Manchester United must keep hold of Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney celebrates scoring against Cardiff City

Wayne Rooney has been in outstanding form since the season began and now, as reported by the Metro, he could be ready to agree a new contract deal with the club.

Remarkably, in just three months the Englishman has managed to recover his fantastic reputation at Old Trafford, after falling out with Sir Alex Ferguson before his shock retirement.

Towards the end of last season, the Scot revealed that the centre forward had submitted a transfer request and the following summer window resulted in a huge rift between club and player.

Moyes’ arrival was made considerably more challenging as he was forced to deal with United’s star man, who seemed intent on forcing a move away from the side who have nurtured him since 18 years of age.

But deal with him he has, and the United manager has since received the full rewards for doing so. Rooney has been in mesmerising form, having scored eight goals in 13 appearances.

He has also taken on the creative burden for the Red Devils, with 21 key passes and six assists made so far this term. His vision and technique make him a threat from all positions on the pitch and this is an ability Moyes will be reluctant to lose.

Rooney has not just inspired his team with goals, but the manner in how he plays the game as well. The 28-year-old will always give 100 per cent on the pitch and that often lifts his team-mates.

His performance against Arsenal in United’s last Premier League fixture epitomises his contribution for the club. In this match he put in an incredible shift for the Red Devils.

The Heat Map above shows how much he worked for Moyes’ side, he can be seen with the ball in both halves of the pitch. Not only did he set-up the winning goal, he also contributed in defence. In total Rooney made two tackles, one interception and one clearance.

The Englishman has been the main man for United this season, and it is largely because of him that the club find themselves fifth in the Premier League. There remains a risk that his current condition is a temporary burst to attract suitors or gain a new deal rather than a signal that his best form has returned for good.

However, having been the stand-out player at Old Trafford, Moyes will be eager to secure Rooney’s future at the club. His current deal runs until the end of next season and now seems far more likely to stay put at United. He certainly deserves a new contract based on his current work rate and form, I would expect him to stay at Old Trafford until the day he decides to hang up his boots.