Manchester United entered the 2013-2014 season as the defending Barclays Premier League champions and even though the club was returning many key members from last year's squad, a new era was set to begin on the sideline. With long-time coach Sir Alex Ferguson stepping down after the Man U campaign, the club announced that former Everton manager David Moyes would replace the legendary boss. Taking over for a man that led the Red Devils to 13 Premier League titles, 5 FA Cups and 2 UEFA Champions League crowns would not be easy, but all those involved with the organization anticipated a smooth transition.
Opening the 2013-2014 Premier League campaign with a convincing 4-1 victory over Swansea, Moyes and company seemed comfortable as a collective unit, something that obviously pleased Manchester United loyalists around the globe. Playing to a draw with an extremely talented Chelsea team the next time out also gave added optimism to those who follow the team. With their only loss coming to Liverpool on September 1, the Red Devils continue to play well, taking down Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen (Champions League match) in back-to-back matches.
One of the main reasons Manchester United continues to play well during the early portion of the season is the performance of Wayne Rooney. The 27-year-old Old Trafford veteran has been an offensive force, recording 3 goals and 3 assists in 2013. Add in the fact that Robin van Persie has 6 tallies of his own and it should come as no surprise that Rooney and company continue to play at a high level. Though Rooney strongly coveted a move to Chelsea during the transfer period since his future role with Man U was up in the air, the star forward says he's happy to be with his current team and also indicates that he enjoys playing for David Moyes, his former coach at Everton.
"The training is a bit different under the new manager," Rooney said regarding the training mechanisms used by David Moyes. "I remember it from Everton, it's more intense. That's helping me. I feel good and am glad to be out playing."
Rooney also put an end to the belief that an ongoing dispute is taking place between he and Robin van Persie, noting the two remain close friends and they will continue to do their jobs to the fullest extent under David Moyes' guidance.
"There is no problem between me and Robin at all," he said. "We are great friends and we want to help each other and be successful. We have done the work together and the times we played together last season we did well so hopefully we can play more together this season and do well. We dovetail well and try and help each other score goals."
Man U will take to the pitch again on September 22 for a crucial Premier League showdown against rival Manchester City.
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