Man Utd v AC Milan: Sir Alex Ferguson challenges Wayne Rooney to score 42 goals

10 March 2010 23:35
Rooney, who overcame a knee injury in time to face the Italians, produced another stunning display as Manchester United joined Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals. [LNB]And with United possibly having up to 14 games left to play this season, manager Ferguson insists that Rooney is capable of surpassing even Ronaldo's mark. [LNB]Manchester Uniteds defeat calls Premier Leagues claims to be the best into questionFerguson said: 'It's a challenge [for Rooney to get 42 goals]. I was just happy for him to reach 30, to be honest with you. [LNB]'But he keeps on improving and he was sensational again tonight. [LNB]'He is still carrying an injury, nothing serious, but with a game on Sunday (against Fulham) we wanted him off early. [LNB]"His performance was a continuation of his form over the last two or three months, just sensational, unbelievable. I'm very pleased with him. [LNB]"What's improved is his movement in the penalty box. He's also practiced a lot more than he has ever done. [LNB]'After training, he puts extra work in and that's what we're seeing now - he's reaping the rewards of that.' [LNB]Ferguson, who has shelved plans for midfielder Owen Hargreaves to end his 18-month injury absence in the reserves on Thursday night, claims that United's victory should not be under-estimated. [LNB]He said: 'We beat Milan 4-0 and not many teams have done that. I don't know if anyone has done that. [LNB]'The deciding factor was Rooney's goal just after half time. That finished the tie. [LNB]'We were able to relax, play good football and keep our concentration after that. [LNB]"Milan had to force it and that made it difficult for them.' David Beckham, making his first appearance against United at Old Trafford, was afforded a rapturous welcome when he entered the fray as a second-half substitute. [LNB]Beckham said: 'I have to say thank-you to all of the fans because they were incredible. [LNB]'It was nice to be back. It was obviously a disappointing night, but nice to be back.'[LNB]

Source: Telegraph