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Edwin van der Sar backs Wayne Rooney to stay at Manchester United

By Sam Hughes, Reporter | 02 June 2013

Van der Sar backs Rooney to stay at Man Utd

Edwin van der Sar claims that there is too much pressure on Wayne Rooney, but admits that he could rediscover his form under new Manchester United manager David Moyes.

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has insisted that Wayne Rooney doesn't need to leave Old Trafford to rediscover his form.

The 27-year-old has been linked with a move away from the club since it was revealed that he had handed in a second transfer request towards the end of last season.

However, despite reported interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Van der Sar feels that with David Moyes installed as the new manager, Rooney could find a new lease of life.

The Dutchman, who is now a marketing director with Ajax, put Rooney's lack of form down to the pressure he is under at international level.

Van der Sar told BBC Radio 5 Live: "There has been so much pressure on him, you build him up and put all your money on him to make England world or European champions.

"So it's also quite easy to cut him down again. Players have indifferent seasons and maybe Wayne's been overtaken by Robin van Persie this year but it's the hard work that he puts in for the team [that should be recognised].

"With the change of manager and backroom staff it could be a big change for Manchester United but I don't think you'll find a better atmosphere at many other clubs."

Rooney scored 12 goals in the Premier League last season.