Ferguson: Rooney will shine again

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

While Cristiano Ronaldo has weighed in with 27 goals this season, the England striker has had to settle for 10 and Ferguson believes Rooney might have been trying too hard in the midweek victory against Portsmouth which could have cost him a chance to add to his tally.

"It is a joy to see someone of his age play with so much enthusiasm," said Ferguson. "He just needs to control his energy - he will soon be banging in the goals again."

He added: "We told him after the game he doesn't need to expend so much energy in midfield," said the United boss. "Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick were in control.

"Wayne worked too hard and that maybe cost him the opportunity to get goals. But he is doing fine. You wish every player you had showed that desire and appetite to play."

Ferguson believes that United may have to finish the season unbeaten if they are to retain the title.

The Scot's side certainly have the momentum having won nine of their last 10 league games.

But despite that great run, United are clear of Arsenal only on goal difference while Chelsea lie just four points adrift.

With 14 matches left, Ferguson said: "I have to look at where the dangers are and say to myself will they go through the season undefeated as Chelsea and Arsenal have done in the past.

"I am taking nothing for granted. We may have to. It is getting very tight now."