Tevez must stay at Man Utd, Rooney says (SN)

Wayne Rooney wants Manchester United strike partner Carlos Tevez to stay on at Old Trafford when his loan period expires next year.

The Argentina international has already indicated he would be keen to stay on at the club and Rooney believes there is no reason why that should not be the case.

“I don't see why that shouldn't happen,'' said Rooney. “Carlos enjoys playing his football here.

“He's got his wife and child with him, who don't live too far away from me.

“He's a nice, quiet lad who gets on with his job and he's enjoying his life.''

Tevez joined United last year after playing a major role in saving West Ham from relegation and he has been a huge hit in the northwest as the club successfully defended their title and reached Wednesday'sa Champions League final.

He has formed a good understanding with Rooney and the respect is mutual ahead of the Champions League final against Chelsea in Moscow on Wednesday.

“Carlos is a great player and works really hard for the team. I had no doubts at all we could play together,” said the England striker.

“From his first day in training with us, you could see the qualities he had.

“I couldn't wait to play alongside him. He's been brilliant, he's a battler, he works so hard for the team – it's been unbelievable.”

Rooney, who is due to marry childhood sweetheart Coleen McLoughlin next month says that beating Chelsea on Wednesday and getting a winners' medal would be a perfect early gift.

“Yes, it will make the wedding a bit better,” said Rooney. “Of course, I'll enjoy the summer more if I win.

“However it wouldn't be unbearable if we lost because you have your football and your family life. They are two different things and you can't really let it upset you too much.

“You've still got people there around you and you don't want to be sitting around grumpy.

“When I am with my family, football doesn't get mentioned that much.”