Rooney deal hints of Man Utd desperation at position of surplus

Rooney and his advisors can hardly be blamed for taking advantage of United's weakness - that is the nature of modern sport. It may yet turn out to be a good

Wayne Rooney, center, scored in his first game after pledging his future to Manchester United with a new long-term contract :: David Klein/Sportimage/Cal Sport Media

Rooney and his advisors can hardly be blamed for taking advantage of United's weakness - that is the nature of modern sport. It may yet turn out to be a good deal for United, if Rooney can prolong his period at the top. But if United was not sitting sixth in the league, it might not have been quite so willing to meet Rooney's demands.