Wayne Rooney aims to make it third time lucky in Emirates FA Cup

Manchester United star Wayne Rooney is hoping to make it third time lucky in The Emirates FA Cup this year.

The England captain helped the Reds into their first Cup Final since 2007 last weekend, as they beat Everton to set up a repeat of the 1990 showpiece against Crystal Palace.

And with United not having won The FA Cup since 2004, suffering defeats in 2005 and 2007, Rooney is now hoping to finally get his hands on the trophy.

"I’ve played in two FA Cup Finals and both have ended up in defeat," he said. 

"It’s a cup I haven’t been lucky enough to win yet, so it’s a good chance for us. 

"I’m sure it’ll be a tough game but I think the fans deserve it - they’ve got to come to Wembley for a Cup Final, and we have to give them a good performance.

"I think it’s a great opportunity for us. There are a lot of young and new players in the dressing room so it could be a big day for us in The Final and the start of something special, I hope."

Rooney was employed in a deeper role than usual by boss Louis Van Gaal on Saturday, impressing in a midfield position against his former club.

And the 30-year-old admits he enjoyed the new set-up, as a first-half goal from Marouane Fellaini and stoppage-time strike from Anthony Martial sealed a 2-1 win.

"I think you’re obviously more involved in the game, you have a bigger influence from that position," he revealed about his new role. 

"I’ve tried to play what I’ve seen and I think it worked, with me and Michael [Carrick] having a bit more experience in there. 

"We helped calm the game down when we needed to, especially after the equaliser, so I enjoyed it.

"I think the amount of games I’ve played - I know I’m still 30 -  I try to help them and try and enjoy my football, which I’m doing."