TheCable

Wayne Rooney will remain a Manchester United player, the striker said in a statement released on Thursday.

The 31-year-old said he’s not ready to leave the Red Devils for the Chinese Super League – or anywhere else – just yet.

The presence of his agent, Paul Stratford, in China had given life to speculation that his time at the club he joined in 2004 had come to an end.

But the United legend says he wishes to remain a part of the Jose Mourinho-led team.

“Despite the interest which has been shown from other clubs, for which I’m grateful, I want to end recent speculation and say that I am staying at Man United,” Rooney’s statement said.

“I hope I’ll play a full part in helping the team in its fight for success on four fronts.

“It’s an exciting time at the club and I want to remain a part of it.”

Rooney has already announced plans to retire from international football after next year’s World Cup in Russia.

His desire to lead England to the tournament may have been the motivating factor behind his decision to continue his professional career in United.