Daniele De Rossi reveals why he turned down Manchester United

Roma legend Daniele De Rossi has revealed that he was put off signing for Manchester United due to the strength of their midfield.

While De Rossi recently retired after a brief spell at Boca Juniors, the Italian spent the bulk of his career at Roma, making 616 appearances in all competitions.

Although De Rossi has acknowledged a fondness for Man United, the 36-year-old feels that the quality of Roy Keane and Paul Scholes would have kept him out of the starting lineup.

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, De Rossi said: "Since I was a child I have loved United. It was the right choice that I didn't go to Manchester because there was Keane and Scholes, incredible players."

De Rossi was part of the Italy squad which won the World Cup in 2006.