Wayne Rooney backs Robin van Persie to return to Manchester United

Wayne Rooney has backed former Manchester United teammate Robin van Persie to return to Old Trafford.

United are currently on the search for a permanent manager as Ralf Rangnick gets set to take up a consultancy role at the end of the season. The Manchester Evening News understands that Erik ten Hag is the club's preferred choice for the position.

United have interviewed Ten Hag but Rangnick recently revealed that more than one candidate has held discussions with the club. Various French news outlets have claimed that Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino has also been interviewed by United chiefs.

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It has been suggested that United are keen to bring in a former player to work alongside their new boss. Ruud van Nistelrooy's name had been mentioned, though the announcement that he will take charge of PSV Eindhoven next season has quashed such talk.

Another ex-United player to be linked with a return to the club is Van Persie. The former striker played alongside Rooney during his time at Old Trafford, and the Derby County boss has shown his support for the Dutchman.

As per the Daily Express, when asked to describe the striker, Rooney said: "Robin – great character, great player, so much ability." Any such move would likely be made once the new manager has been confirmed, with United hoping to make their decision before the end of the season.

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