After being uncertain about Wayne Rooney’s qualities at the start of the season, manager Louis Van Gaal appears to be extremely happy with the England international.

Rooney was fighting with Robin van Persie for the position of being captain for Manchester United. It was widely thought that van Persie would win the duel due to his excellent relationship with Van Gaal. Yet, 12 months is a long time in football and it has been proven once again since van Persie appears to be heading towards exit while Rooney’s position at the club has been strengthened even further.

Rooney has been playing in his preferred striking role over the last few months, while he has also excelled as a captain. His versatility has also allowed Van Gaal to be flexible with his positioning during times of injury crisis. The Dutchman has awarded glowing praise upon Rooney ahead of the match with Hull City on the final day of the 2014-15 league campaign. He says that United can be the best team in the world if they have 10 players with a similar attitude like Rooney. Van Gaal has also managed to get the best out of players like Ashley Young, who were on the verge of an exit before he came to the club.

“He’s a very good captain, I am very proud. I don’t have any disappointment this year with him. He’s great in the dressing room and an example on the training pitch.When we play a match he shall always fight until the end. He has played a lot of positions for me, without complaining.That’s also what I like in Ashley Young, who has also played a lot of positions at a high level. I like multi-functional players as they offer you more that the team needs than other players,” said Van Gaal.