Ahead of their clash with Liverpool this afternoon, Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney admits it is hard to watch their rivals competing for the title.
The reigning champions currently sit 11 points behind their Merseyside counterparts in the league, and in the build-up to the lunchtime clash, the England striker says the form of their opponents has been difficult to take for United’s players and fans.
Rooney said: “It's not nice when we know we are capable of being up there challenging and we haven’t been doing that this season. It is really difficult to see City doing well - and particularly Liverpool, who have kicked on.
“We have to keep working, keep progressing and finish the season stronger.”
Wayne Rooney
"It means we have to step up and get back up there, because the feeling we have had this season when we're not doing so well is not a nice feeling at all to have.
"We have to keep working, keep progressing and finish the season stronger. Hopefully we can make that top four but, if not, we will still come back firing next season.”
Whether or not United make this season’s Champions League places, Rooney says he is determined to help the club bounce back.
Speaking to Inside United magazine, Rooney added: “I just think we’ve had a disappointing campaign, but we will bounce back. I am sure of that.
“We have to focus on trying to get into the top four.
“If not, we’ll bounce back next season and be up there challenging again.”
