Manchester United skipper Wayne Rooney has claimed that he has learned to control his emotions on the pitch as he approaches his 30th birthday.

The forward failed to hold his passion in check in the early stages of his career, most notably at the 2006 World Cup when he was sent off in England's quarter-final clash against Portugal.

However, Rooney believes that he has matured on the pitch, but still has the same determination to succeed as he did at the start of his footballing life.

When asked if he had become less emotional on the field, he told The Mirror: "No, I don't think so. It's just really that now, through experience, I know better how to control that emotion.

"I still care as much as ever. I still want to win as much as ever, but I don't let that desire impact me or the team in a negative way."

Rooney will lead United in their clash against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.