Could Wayne Rooney be the difference when Manchester United play Arsenal?

Wayne Rooney

You wouldn’t have thought it from their Everton days, but Wayne Rooney is fast becoming David Moyes’s most trusted lieutenant at Manchester United this season.

A dramatic fallout during Rooney’s final days with the Toffees left a bitter after-taste for both parties as the then 18-year-old headed to the bright lights of Old Trafford for a princely sum of £25.6 million.

Moyes would eventually sue Rooney for libel in 2006 after the striker released his controversial autobiography accusing the former Everton boss of leaking his reasons for leaving Everton to the press.

The pair settled out of court, but the relationship between the two was thought to be permanently damaged and when Moyes took charge at United, many predicted sparks would fly again.

But the duo have seemingly put their issues to one side, and Rooney’s form has seen an upturn this season under his former manager.

And now, Moyes must rely on his talisman more than ever as Premier League leaders Arsenal visit Old Trafford on Sunday for a crunch match.

A defeat is unthinkable for Moyes and Rooney, as it would confirm United’s slide down the table, leaving them with a massive 11 point gap to the top.

With Dutch striker Robin van Persie struggling for consistency, it falls upon Rooney’s shoulders to provide the impetus and inspiration for United.

Just as well then, that Rooney seems to be kicking up the gears in search of the blistering form that made him one of the world’s best strikers only a few short years ago.

The Liverpool-born star has scored five goals and assisted three times in nine games, in addition to providing 15 chances for team-mates.

Wayne Rooney – Goals Scored

Rooney’s recent goalscoring form comes courtesy of a 63% shot accuracy, and a chance conversion rate of 20.8% – a very respectable level.

He also provides a direct threat through his dribbling, with a 75% from 20 take-on’s attempts this term.

Wayne Rooney – Average Duels Won

A pass completion rate of 76% is quite poor for a player of his standards, but it must be acknowledged that as a second striker he will be attempting a lot more risky passes than the majority of his peers.

With Arsenal likely to field both Aaron Ramsey and Mikel Arteta, Rooney will be anticipating seeing a lot of the ball in front of the Gunners duo.

Liverpool’s formation least weekend meant that there wasn’t enough of a threat in the attacking midfield positions, but Moyes will ensure that Rooney targets the weaknesses of the Ramsey-Arteta axis.

If Rooney carries his recent good form into the game, handling him will be Arsenal’s toughest task so far this campaign.

For Moyes and Manchester United, the striker represents their best chance of winning the Super Sunday clash and reclaiming some pride and points in what has been a difficult season.