Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal stresses Wayne Rooney brings balance to midfield

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal believes Wayne Rooney is his best option to provide balance in his midfield and has suggested moving him back up front could cause him serious problems.

Rooney, 29, has occupied a midfield role throughout 2015 and was moved further back in the 3-1 win over Burnley at Old Trafford on 11 February, stepping into Daley Blind's holding position.

Blind was taken off after 39 minutes following a collision with teammate Jonny Evans and replaced by Ander Herrera.

While United laboured to a win over Sean Dyche's side, Van Gaal was delighted with his skipper's ability to fill in in yet another position and hinted Rooney will continue to play the middle of the park.

"Rooney was one of the players who showed the best composure today," Van Gaal told a post-match press conference.

"I have to look for the better balance and I think until now, because of Rooney, we have a better balance in midfield and I was pleased how he replaced Daley Blind in the number six position.

"He showed composure and of course he was also today the Rooney that I want to see, but he has showed that he can play in every position.

"But maybe he can better play in a striker's position, but then I have a problem in midfield and then you are asking another question."

Rooney scored eight goals this season before the turn of the year – and still stands as the club's second top scorer this season – but has failed to find the back of the net in 2015 since being deployed in midfield.

The England captain, who is also United's third all-time top goalscorer, could retain a holding midfield role for the visit to Preston North End in their FA Cup fifth round tie on 16 February. However, Van Gaal says he is hopeful of Blind recovering in time.