On Saturday, Manchester United beat West Ham United 2-1, in a display that proved United can in fact defend and included a superb debut for young centre back Paddy McNair. However the main focus was once again on the ever controversial Wayne Rooney. As captain it is Rooney’s responsibility to control and motivate his team, but after Saturday one must wonder whether he is the right man for the job?
Wayne Rooney Captain or Capitulation
In the first half, Wayne Rooney was at his best. In the fifth minute, when Rafael’s cross found Rooney in the box, he converted with an expert half volley over Adrián. That goal took his Premier League scoring tally to 176, surpassing Thierry Henry, to become the Premier League’s third highest scorer of all time. Rooney looked to be leading by example as he controlled the midfield. But in the second half, we say the petulant side of Rooney as he foolishly lashed out at Stuart Downing to receive a red card just before the hour mark, leaving United to weather the storm with 10 men for half an hour.
On one hand, Wayne Rooney appears to be the best man to wear the captain’s arm band. As a player it is difficult to doubt Rooney’s ability and having recently celebrated 10 years at the club, Rooney has become an iconic figure world wide and to many, represents Manchester United. He certainly has experience, where as the majority of the first team are new arrivals. Rooney is also incredibly passionate, as shown against Leicester, he cares about the result and isn’t afraid to show that. It would seem that Rooney is the logical choice.
However, on Saturday, we were reminded of Rooney’s short temper. To lash out in frustration at Stewart Downing the way he did was unacceptable and foolish. Considering the way Manchester United have started their season, a win was a necessity. With half an hour to play and only a one goal lead, United required a sensible and calm display. This is where a captain should lead by example. In this instance, United could not turn to Rooney, because of an aggressive foul that was completely unnecessary. Being outnumbered, United were on the back foot and struggled to hold out West Ham’s attacks without their leader. It appears that Wayne Rooney is not fit to lead the team as he can’t keep a cool head in key moments.
Rooney’s dismissal is also likely to have a huge impact as he will now miss three matches, including crucial games against Everton and Chelsea. He would undoubtedly have been a key part of Louis Van Gaal’s tactics and for a moment of frustration, United could suffer. At a time when stability is needed, Rooney’s poor decision making could mean trouble in upcoming fixtures.
Although Rooney seems to be the ideal choice as captain, one has to think that due to his temper and some poor decisions, Rooney may not be reliable when it’s needed the most and can put the team in danger. The difficult decision facing Van Gaal, is who would be a suitable replacement. United lack the midfield commander or defensive stalwart that would normally wear the armband. For now, Rooney appears to be the logical option, however he must step up his performances and, nearing the age of 29, mature enough to lead a team without jeopardising results.
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