Ferguson: Wayne Rooney is Back at his Best

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Wayne Rooney is back at his best and that his combination with Robin van Persie will win the Red Devils a lot of games.

Rooney had reportedly handed in a transfer request at the end of last season but has started the new era under David Moyes in blistering form, something which bodes well for his future at the club. The 27-year-old was close to securing a move to Chelsea with Jose Mourinho publicly pursuing the England international, but United rejected the Blues approach which saw the striker extend his stay with the Premier League Champions.

The former Everton man is yet to sign a new contract, and with his present contract expiring in 2015 the Gunners are looking to exploit his position. The north London club is ready to relaunch a £30m bid for the player in January.

Arsene Wenger is in the market for a striker and a swoop for Rooney will make them genuine title contenders this season. However, Ferguson believes that his desire to win shows that he is committed to extend his career with the Red Devils.

"Wayne's performance was fantastic. I was pleased to see that. He's got his energy back, his determination to attack players. It was all very encouraging for me. Being a director I am delighted to see that. He's back to what we always remember him as. We'll have a fantastic chance because in Van Persie and Rooney you have forwards who can win you games," Ferguson said.

Meanwhile, Rooney is enthusiastic about the partnership he can string together with Robin van Persie this season and is not perturbed by the possibility of having to play behind the Dutchman.

"I've seen things said over the summer, but me and Robin are friends off the pitch. There's no problem between me and Robin at all. We're great friends and we want to help each other and be successful. I think the manager has made it clear that he wants one up and one behind, and whatever way round that is it doesn't matter to me," Rooney said.

"It doesn't matter as long as one is always filling in behind and helping out the midfield. We've done the work together and the times we played together last season we did well, so hopefully we can play more together this season and do well," he added.