Wayne Rooney 'Worried About Louis Van Gaal Appointment as United Boss'

Manchester United star Wayne Rooney is reportedly worried about the Premier League holders' plan to appoint manager Louis Van Gaal, as the Netherlands boss's close relationship with Robin Van Persie could threaten his status in the squad.

Rooney signed a four-year contract extension with United last February, ending the speculation surrounding his future after last season Sir Alex Ferguson claimed the striker had asked to leave the club.

Reports claimed last summer that the 28-year-old was upset about his situation under Ferguson, after the legendary boss decided to give Van Persie a leading role up-front with Rooney forced to play on the flank and even in a midfield position.

David Moyes' arrival at the club turned around that situation, with Rooney recovering a place up-front and signing and committing his future to the club with a new deal.

However the Daily Mail reports that Rooney is once more concerned about his future, as Van Gaal's appointment could restore Van Persie's preeminence.

With record signing Juan Mata proving that he has to play behind the striker rather than on the flank to replicate his best form, it looks as if there is just one place up front at United, and with the Netherlands boss in charge Van Persie could be the favourite to become the nine.

Meanwhile, Daily Mail add that Van Gaal remains the main candidate to replace interim boss Ryan Giggs at Old Trafford, especially after second choice Carlo Ancelotti secured his future at Real Madrid by thrashing Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final.

With Holland's De Telegraaf newspaper recently suggesting Van Gaal already has a verbal agreement in place to join United, his appointment appears imminent.