On Sunday night, the rumours started to circulate that Wayne Rooney was not interested in signing a new contract at Old Trafford, something which has been confirmed by Sir Alex Ferguson 48 hours later.

The manager spoke to assorted journalists on Tuesday afternoon confirming that Rooney has shown no desire to sign an improved contract which would keep the player at the club for several seasons.

“I’m disappointed, very disappointed, I can’t believe it,” Ferguson said. “He had told us he was happy at the club, that he was at the best club in the world, so I must say it was terribly disappointing to get the news because I can’t quite understand it.

“It’s a club that no-one can deny is one of the most successful in British football. We have won 40 major trophies, been to countless cup finals, we have a fantastic history, a great stadium, great training arrangements. There’s a platform for anyone to take up a challenge here. There is incredible romance at this club. We just don’t understand it.”

Speculation has already started as to which club Wayne Rooney will join and Manchester City appear to be one of the few clubs that could afford to sign the striker and pay astronomical wages. Chelsea and Barcelona are also thought to be in the reckoning.