Wayne Rooney: 'I deserved to be substituted'

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has admitted that he is 'relishing' the opportunity to return to form against Newcastle United on Boxing Day.

The 27-year-old was substituted in the second half of United's 1-1 draw with Swansea City on Sunday after what he described as an "off day", but he has insisted that he is ready to impress against Newcastle at Old Trafford.

Rooney told the Daily Mail: "I could feel it [was not going to be my day] on the pitch. Some days you have an off day and I could feel that. I couldn't complain at being substituted.

"I think the thing about football, and especially over the Christmas period, is that you have games and this game has gone for me and it is certainly not one I will remember, but I will relish the next one.

"The position we are in at the minute, it is a great opportunity to make that gap at the top of the table even bigger."

Rooney has scored eight goals in 19 appearances for United this season.