Monday 24 April 2017 00:40, UK
Wayne Rooney claims he and Anthony Martial have given Jose Mourinho "something to think about" after their goals sealed Manchester United's 2-0 win at Burnley.
Rooney capped his first start since March 4 with United's second goal at Turf Moor, after Martial had ended a 10-game drought to put them ahead against the Clarets.
The result maintained United's push for automatic Champions League qualification, and, according to Rooney, served as a reminder to the options at Mourinho's disposal, given the recent injuries to Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcos Rojo.
"We knew this was a difficult place to come after going from the high of getting to the Europa League semi-final to the low of losing Zlatan and Rojo," Rooney told Sky Sports.
"We're all gutted for both of those players. We wish them a speedy recovery.
"That gives other players a chance to come in and try and stake a claim, like myself and Martial have given the manager something to think about.
"We played well, both scored so it's great. It's competition for places and that's what we need."
Rooney's third Premier League goal of the season - his first since January 21 - offered a timely boost to United ahead of Thursday's derby with rivals Manchester City.
And Rooney was pleased to have an impact on his return to the first-team fold ahead of their potentially defining trip to the Etihad Stadium.
"I was delighted to be back out there today," Rooney added. "I've had injuries and I've wanted to play.
"But just as I've been getting my chance to come off the bench I've picked up a few injuries, nothing big but it's set me back. I've come back and I feel strong.
"On Thursday, it's two great teams in a massive game for the city. It's a fight for the top four - we're both firmly in the chase. It's a big game for both teams and we'll be ready."
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