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Fergie team-talks irreplaceable - Rooney

Wayne Rooney insists Sir Alex Ferguson's achievements will never be repeated in English football © PA Photos

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Wayne Rooney believes Sir Alex Ferguson could be in charge of Manchester United for another decade, insisting the Scot's pre-match team-talks are irreplaceable.

Ferguson celebrates 25 years in charge of United this week, a period in the game that has seen the Red Devils transformed into England's most successful club on a domestic level.

Rooney was signed by Ferguson in 2004, and the England striker admits he is left in awe by some of his boss's speeches. The United boss turns 70 on New Year's Eve, but Rooney insists Ferguson will be impossible to replace when he eventually retires.

"Some of his team talks... you walk out on the pitch and you say to each other 'How good was that?'" Rooney said in the Sun.

"For the British players who understand him, it is incredible. It's more difficult for the foreign lads to understand. But it gets you right up for the game and I don't really think that is something that can ever be replaced."

Ferguson's spell was not always destined to last 25 years, after he announced his intention to step down in 2002 only to perform a U-turn. Rooney though, can see no sign of another unwanted announcement arriving.

"It wouldn't surprise me if he was here another 10 years. His hunger and desire are still the same," Rooney said. "I've never seen anyone with his desire and passion. It rubs off, certainly on me and I'm sure on all the other players.

"What he has done, not just for Manchester United but the game of football, is amazing. In my estimation, he's the best of the lot. It's incredible, 25 years in charge of the same club and the success he's had. It'll never happen again, I'm sure."

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