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United in no rush over Rooney’s contract

Wayne-Rooney-v-Spurs_3044684David Moyes has admitted United are not planning to open contract talks with Wayne Rooney in the immediate future, as the club seem happy to let the striker enter the final year of his contract which is a risky strategy at best and, at worst, the footballing equivalent of committing suicide.

After a turbulent summer during which Rooney seemed close to leave Old Trafford, before United turned down two offers from Chelsea, the 28-year-old has performed in inspired fashion for the Reds, returning to the form he last enjoyed three seasons ago when he almost single-handedly carried United to the title.

Moyes, however, said the club are in no rush to open negotiations, despite Rooney’s contract is set to expire in 18 months and, based on current form at least, he isn’t likely to be short of options and offers.

“When will we talk to him about the contract? I don’t really know,” said Moyes.

“I think we are fine. We are just moving on from the summer. It will be done in good course.

“The appropriate people will talk when the time is right.”

Rooney was outstanding at White Hart Lane on Sunday as he twice drew United level and looked, as he has done all season, like his old-self, the sort of footballer who’s not distracted by off-field antics, but simply enjoys his football.

Moyes was full of praise for the United striker, who has now netted 12 goals and assisted 10 in 21 games in all competitions this season.

“You will see him score a lot of great goals. But that (his first) was more of a sniff at goal, a mix-up in the box and he was on the end of it,” said Moyes.

“His performances have been great and he’s worked incredibly hard. And he deserves the rewards he is getting.”

Rooney’s brace, however, could only earn United a point, which saw them slipping nine points behind league leaders Arsenal and Rooney himself admitted United must turn draws into wins if they’re to retain their Premier League crown.

“We didn’t start the game too well. We gave away a sloppy goal on the edge of the box with the free-kick and made it difficult for ourselves,” said the United striker.

“Thankfully, we got back into it and played some decent stuff. The lads did well, but then they hit us with the goal – it was a great strike by Sandro.

“We had to regroup and go again. We got the goal quite early on and I think 2-2 was a fair result.

“I’m confident and playing well but that’s down to my team-mates.

“I’m just trying to do my job and help us to be successful. We’re on a good run but need to try and turn some draws into wins.

“Spurs away is a difficult game but a point is probably a good result. It’s the other games where we need to turn those points into three, that will make a massive difference.”

Dan