Rooney: Too Many Manchester United Players Forced to Play Unfamiliar Positions, Signings Should Have Solved It

Rooney believes that after the summer transfer window closed, the squad provided to Carrick by Manchester United's hierarchy had weaknesses. The club should have signed a left-back to provide rotation support for Luke Shaw; at the same time, he insists the team still needs a new striker to reduce the pressure on Sesko, who has not started a Premier League match this season so far.

"I have always had this view, and the match against Everton confirmed my thoughts. Manchester United were clearly the better side, controlling the game, but the team lacked a proper number nine. Whatever the reason, Sesko's physical condition was not at its best, and he missed the entire pre-season preparation." Rooney said on a video programme.

"They lack a traditional number nine, and there is also a lack of internal competition at full-back."

"I think Luke Shaw performed very well against Everton. He had the chance to get closer to scoring his first goal, and his overall performance was very good. His link-up play with Rashford was also very positive.

But late in the match, Dalot and Mazraoui were brought on and moved to left-back. A team aiming to compete at the top of the Premier League should be pleased to return to the Champions League, but after reaching the Champions League, you also need the ability to compete there. Can we win the Champions League? The probability is not high. Nothing is impossible, but the hope is slim.

But you need a squad capable of competing, and I think the squad Michael has been given is lacking."

"Luke Shaw cannot play every match, so Dalot and Mazraoui can only fill in at left-back. We have seen too many players being forced to play in positions they are not familiar with. The club should have solved these issues through signings.

You cannot help but question this. I know Michael has publicly stated that he is satisfied with the current group of players. But I do not believe any coach would ever truly be satisfied; you always want to have more players and more support for the team on the pitch.

I do not think the defence is strong enough. Harry Maguire is almost the first-choice centre-back, Martinez has suffered from repeated injuries; Heaven has huge potential, and I personally rate him highly, but that remains only potential, and he has not yet produced enough competitive performances. The full-back positions are a major concern."