Why Rooney wanted to leave Man U, and why he finally stayed

LONDON - Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has said that he is delighted about the new five-year contract, which came following a big controversy where he had announced his intention to leave the club.

Rooney has signed a 60 million pound contract with United making him the best paid Premier League player in history.

“I am delighted to finally sign and hopefully I can now move on and get fit and get back playing. It’s been difficult for me and for the club as well. For me, I felt I had to get my point across,” the Sun quoted Rooney, as saying.

“We finally came to an agreement. It’s the best for me and for the club,” he added.

The 24-year-old further admitted that the past few days have been difficult for manager Sir Alex Ferguson as well.

“He has looked after the club. He was trying to convince me to sign a new deal. We spoke about it. He has been fantastic. He is a great manager, which I have said many times. He is one of the reasons I came to the club, to work under him and be successful,” Rooney said.

“I am hoping that over the next few years we can do that again. He is not the only reason I am staying here. The supporters have been great, but he is a big reason. He has experience and passion and will to win. He is one of the reasons I am staying here,” he added.

Rooney had moved to Old Trafford from Everton in 2004 for 25.6 million pounds and has helped the club win three successive Premier League titles from 2007-09.

His previous contract was due to expire in 2012. (ANI)