Rooney's Chronicles : ROO-TURN

How The 'Joke' Unfolded

Sunday 17 October

The Sunday Mirror claims a "world exclusive" front-page story which says that Sir Alex Ferguson has told Wayne Rooney he no longer wants him at Old Trafford.

Monday

The story gathers pace with the back pages, and some front pages, reporting that Rooney has told Manchester United that he wants to leave the club, and that he and Sir Alex Ferguson have not spoken for a month.

Tuesday

In a frank press conference, Sir Alex Ferguson says there has been no row with his star player, but confirms that Rooney has indeed rejected a new contract and is "adamant" that he wants to leave the club. Speculation is rife that he wants to join rivals Manchester City.

Wednesday

Rooney counters with a statement of his own, questioning the club's ambition and quality of the squad. He says that he has refused to sign a new contract because he has not been given assurances "about the future squad".

Thursday

An angry mob of Manchester United supporters gather outside Rooney's Cheshire mansion. According to reports, the 30-strong group, carrying a banner which read "Sign for City and you're dead", pressed the intercom and demanded to speak with the striker.

Friday

In an astonishing U-turn, Rooney announces that he is staying at United and has signed a new five-year contract. He reportedly apologised to Sir Alex and to his teammates and said that it was his manager's "belief and support" which convinced him to stay.