Manchester United news: Wayne Rooney looking to emulate Old Trafford legend Paul Scholes in midfield role

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has revealed that he has set his sights on emulating Paul Scholes by moving into a midfield role. The 30-year-old featured in the number eight role in the Red Devils' last two victories over Crystal Palace and Everton.

The England international has played in multiple positions this term, including his preferred position as a central striker and also in the number 10 position. However, Rooney has admitted that he envisaged playing in the midfield and wants to improve his game in his new position.

"I've known for a few years. I have played there a few times throughout my career and I can play that position," Rooney explained, as quoted by Sky Sports.

"I have played and watched Paul Scholes play that role for years and I always knew that one day that is where I would play, so I have tried to learn and watch what he did.

"It is still early days, but hopefully, if I keep playing there, I can develop and get better. We have got a lot of pace in the team now and I think I can read the game quite well - whether to go forward or stay deeper and leave the space for the other lads.

"Obviously it is down to the manager, and for the team more importantly it is the right thing to do at this moment in time."

United are through to the FA Cup final after defeating Everton 2-1 at Wembley on 23 April. Louis van Gaal fielded Rooney in the centre of the pitch and the decision to do so was rewarded early in the game when he denied Romelu Lukaku a clear goalscoring opportunity.

The 20-time English champions have five matches (four league fixtures and one FA Cup final) remaining in the 2015/16 season. When asked whether Rooney could continue in the midfield, Van Gaal told United's official website: "It is dependable on where my players continue. I explained it also last we."

"At this moment I think that [Marcus] Rashford does a very good job in the striker's positon and now Wayne can contribute to the team more in midfield. I have seen today a great Wayne in midfield.

"It is not the first time he has played in midfield. Last year he also played in midfield, then your colleagues said he should play in the strikers' position. Maybe you remember that?"