It is genuinely bizarre. Again, another just pretty much normal performance in a 3-1 win and there is 12 pages of absolute drivel. It is cringeworthy and the desperation in this thread is palpable.
Nice strawmen there. I can agree that some of the vitriol sent his way is too much, but it's not like it's pure coincidence that a large majority of the fanbase sees the same thing. Besides, Rooney bashing is hardly confined to Redcafe
Rooney has always been erratic in his performances, but the last two years or so, his average game has just been unacceptable for a player of his status. Hes also been tried in pretty much any position besides defense or GK, which tells us that managers don't know what to do with him, but instead just has to shoehorn him into the side because he is who he is.
Nothing would make me happier than getting "the old Rooney" back, but it just won't happen. Some players age like wine, others like sour cream, and Rooney is certainly in the former category. His game was always the physical one, he never had outstanding technique, and seeing as he has played top flight football in almost 15 years now, it's understandable that it has taken it's toll on his body.
He is still a good finisher, so he will rack up some goals, but that's about it. His overall game has declined so much it's almost depressing to see. He never takes anyone on, his touch is terrible and his passing is usually negative and very predictable. Not exactly desirable qualities in a #10 or SS. More importantly, he playing means the likes of Mata, Herrera, Mkhitaryan, Rashford etc will be left out.
It's a sad truth, but all players come to the end of their careers at some point and i firmly believe Rooney's is here. Ferdinand, Evra, Giggs and the list goes on are all players that were immense in their prime, but all looked Championship level when age and fatigue got to them. It's the same for Rooney.
We know exactly what you're going to say whether you watch the game or not