Phil Jones: 'Criticism doesn't bother Wayne Rooney'

Manchester United defender Phil Jones has insisted that the recent criticism levelled at Wayne Rooney has not affected the captain.

The 31-year-old was the standout performer as United cruised to a 4-0 victory over Feyenoord in the Europa League on Thursday night, putting a tumultuous start to the season behind him.

Rooney's goal in that game saw him move onto 248 for the club, just one short of Sir Bobby Charlton's all-time record, and Jones is hopeful that the England international will move level when his side welcome West Ham United to Old Trafford on Sunday.

"It's been difficult for him but it's water off a duck's back for him. He's dealt with that throughout his career. He's shown that it doesn't bother him. He put in a good performance and got his goal," he told reporters.

"I'm buzzing for him. He's a world-class player, has been for many years, a legend at the club. I'm just delighted for him; he's a great lad off the pitch as well.

"I hope he scores in the first minute on Sunday. He's got all the talent in the world so let's hope he keeps scoring the goals."

Rooney's goal was also his 39th in continental competition for United, taking him above Ruud van Nistelrooy as the club's top scorer in Europe.