Rio Ferdinand: Wayne Rooney staying at Manchester United was a crucial factor in winning Premier League title

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Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand says Wayne Rooney‘s decision to stay at Old Trafford last year was crucial to the club’s success this season.

The Red Devils claimed their 19th league title last weekend and are preparing for a Champions League final against Barcelona at Wembley, and Ferdinand believes Rooney staying was the key to their achievements.

“Rooney staying was a big part of what we achieved this season. There was a sense of relief from the players, the fans, everybody,” Ferdinand told The Sun.

“Wayne is one of the best three players in the world, so to have him on our team-sheet is a bonus.

“I spoke to him that week when he was thinking of going.

“You do it with a Manchester United hat on and explain what you think is best for the club and how you want him to stay.

“If he had left it would have been a very big hole to fill.

“I’m not saying it was unfillable because the manager always comes up with something and you trust in his judgement. But, more than anything, Wayne staying sent a signal out to every one of our rivals in the Premier League that the glimmer of hope they had of us falling away had gone.”

England star Rooney confirmed he wanted to leave Old Trafford last October, but just a week later had a change in heart and a signed a new five-year contract.

The striker has gone on to score 15 goals for the new Premier League champions, including the goal that secured the title at Blackburn Rovers last weekend.