The Red Devils boss revealed his plans for his captain, who was used in midfield for much of the last campaign, during the club’s pre-season tour in the USA.
Speaking ahead of Tuesday night's friendly with San Jose Earthquakes at the Avaya Stadium, the United boss spoke of his admiration for the man he appointed skipper of the Old Trafford side last summer.
Rooney's recent goal record
Season Goals
2010/11 16
2011/12 34
2012/13 16
2013/14 19
2014/15 14
“I think he is a great captain. Better than I had expected, and he is fully accepted by the players and that is also very important,” he said before confirming that the 29-year-old will return to his preferred frontline position.
Upon hearing the news Rooney, who also captains England, immediately challenged himself to reach the same heights of his goalscoring past this season.
He last operated as a main striker in the 2011-12 campaign, when he scored 34 goals, his equal-highest personal haul.
"I hope to score 20 or more goals again," declared Rooney, who has struck 48 goals for his country.
"If I'm playing as a striker, then I will be disappointed if I can't do that again.
"I've played different roles over the years for United but you only have to look when I play for England as a striker I score goals."
