Wayne Rooney tears into Man Utd after Newcastle win and names senior player they 'have' to build around

Wayne Rooney has identified the one senior player Manchester United who shouldn't be sold this summer in a brutal assessment of their current squad.

United have struggled in large spells throughout the 2023/24 campaign but many will see their 3-2 win over Newcastle United as a promising sign given their recent form.

Goals from Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo and Rasmus Hojlund sealed all three points for Erik ten Hag's side as they moved level on points with Wednesday's opponents.

Despite their efforts, however, the club's all-time top goalscorer was in no mood for compliments.

Wayne Rooney, who was on punditry duty for Sky Sports alongside Roy Keane and Andy Cole, claimed United need to have a "massive clear out" in the summer.

In fact, Rooney insisted captain Bruno Fernandes is the only senior player who shouldn't be sold.

"You have to build the team around Bruno," he said. "He's quality and has got fight in him, and then I think all the other players, get rid of them."

Sky presenter Dave Jones, clearly taken aback by Rooney's claim, asked Manchester United's all-time top scorer to expand on his suggestion.

"I think you keep the young players, and you keep Bruno," he said.

"I think it has to be a massive clear out. It has to be. It's not going to be in one year, but I think it's going to be in the next couple of years.

"I think he (Onana) has had a shaky start but has got better and better over the year. For me, Dalot's done well, Maguire has had an in and out season.

"To compete in this league they need better players. Don't get me wrong these players are good players but to compete with Man City, Liverpool and Arsenal, they need better players."

Rooney also gave his thoughts on Marcus Rashford, who had to be held back by teammates ahead of their clash against Newcastle after getting into a heated exchange with a supporter.

"We all know Marcus has the capabilities to play at the top level, and we haven't seen it," the 38-year-old added.

"I just wonder is it time for Marcus to go and play somewhere else. I think he has to ask himself that question. I want him to stay and break records at this club. He needs to work hard and get his head down."

Featured Image Credit: Sky Sports Premier League - Getty Images

Topics: Wayne Rooney, Manchester United, Premier League, Bruno Fernandes

Jack Kenmare

Senior Journalist at SPORTbible with a passion for long-form journalism. Almost 10 years’ experience across online and print.

@jackkenmare_