Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has insisted that Wayne Rooney remains a crucial part of their squad, following a cameo from the bench against Swansea City on Saturday.
Rooney came on to help United secure a 4-1 win in their first match under new boss David Moyes, with Rooney laying on the final goal for Danny Welbeck at the Liberty Stadium.
The 27-year-old decided not to join his teammates in celebrating Welbeck's second on the far side, after taking a kick in sending forward the final pass.
Carrick believes that Rooney has the entire club's support despite consistently being linked with a move away from Old Trafford, declaring that the squad will stick together and ignore speculation.
He told The Guardian: "I thought he came on and looked good. He set up two goals and that's what he's all about. He's a real threat.
"He got a bit of a whack when he made Danny's second but I'm sure he'll be all right. He's a big Manchester United player. He's one of us and we all stick together. When we're on the pitch we fight for each other and do what we can for Wayne. He's certainly part of that."
"He's given this club an awful lot so the fans support him and we support him. As I said, we stick together. It was a good day."
Chelsea remain interested in signing Rooney before the transfer window closes, with Blues boss Jose Mourinho hinting at a fresh bid last weekend.
