Eddie Howe backs Wayne Rooney to prolong career in midfield role

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe has claimed that Wayne Rooney will be able to prolong his career in a deeper-lying midfield role for Manchester United.

Ahead of his side travelling to Old Trafford on the final day of the Premier League season, Howe said that he is a "massive Rooney fan" and believes that the 30-year-old can thrive wherever he plays.

"I have done similar with a few of my players (moved them into the midfield), so out-and-out number nines who you would have considered out-and-out goalscorers like Brett Pitman we ended up playing deeper," PA quotes Howe as saying.

"I think when you look at the attributes of Wayne Rooney, you look at his technical ability, his knowledge, his understanding and also players like that do not lose the habit of scoring goals no matter what position they play, they find areas to score goals on the pitch.

"I think it is a clever move and one that will prolong his career."

Bournemouth, who are safe from relegation in 16th place, have failed to do the double over any side in their first Premier League season but will put that right should they win tomorrow after beating United 2-1 at home in December.