Wayne Rooney inspired by Jose Mourinho arrival at Man Utd

Having succeeded the sacked Louis van Gaal in May, Mourinho is looking to make the Old Trafford outfit a major force once again.

And in terms of Rooney's potential role in that, the new manager has indicated he intends to use the 30-year-old United and England captain, who has dropped into a deeper midfield position for club and country of late, as part of his attack .

Rooney - with the Red Devils since 2004 and only four goals behind Sir Bobby Charlton's record haul of 249 in the club's all-time top-scorers list - told Inside United magazine: "I'm really excited to be working with Jose this season as he's one of the best managers in the world.

"It's an exciting time for Manchester United. I've always respected him both as a man and a manager, he's a nice guy and one of the most successful managers of all time," said Rooney.

"I like to think I'm always motivated as a player but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a bit more motivated when a new manager comes in. I'm sure all the lads will be happy to be working under Jose and also eager to impress."

He added: "I've played against many Mourinho sides over the years and I can't remember any easy games, so I think that says it all. His teams are always hard to beat, tactically disciplined and, most importantly, successful.

"He'll bring all these qualities with him and I'm sure he'll have his own ideas, but one of the biggest assets will be his experience. He's managed a lot of successful teams throughout his career and all that experience will be vital."

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