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Ferguson reveals reason for Rooney U-turn

Wayne Rooney has scored just once in the Premier League this season

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Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that Wayne Rooney's shock contract U-turn came about as a result of the animosity shown towards him by Manchester United fans.

The England striker looked set to depart United after questioning the club's trophy-winning potential - with Manchester City the most likely destination - but, just two days after confirming his intention to leave, he signed a new long-term contract at Old Trafford.

While cynics have suggested that Rooney's desire to leave was no more than a ploy to increase his wages, Ferguson believes that the 24-year-old changed his mind because of the ire aimed in his direction by the United faithful.

The most drastic example of the supporters' distaste came when a group in hoods issued death threats at his house. "Nobody enjoys that sort of attention," Ferguson said. "When he saw the impact his decision made it took him aback and he had a rethink."

Now that his future is resolved, Ferguson is adamant that Rooney will cast off the slump in form that has affected him ever since the World Cup. The former Everton man, who is currently injured, has one goal in the Premier League this season - and that was from the penalty spot.

"I don't know the reason for his loss of form because it started in the World Cup," Ferguson said. "Whether some clubs have been filling his head in that period to affect him we don't know. The important thing is for us to put it behind us. But certainly something has been troubling him."

Asked if the contract saga was it, he replied: "I think that this has been preying on his mind."

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