Paul Scholes believes Wayne Rooney-inspired Manchester United can still win the Premier League title

The former midfielder also identified when he would like to see Rooney score his record-breaking 250th United goal

Mark Critchley @mjcritchley

Saturday 07 January 2017 17:33

Scholes believes United are more than capable of challenging leaders Chelsea

(Getty)

Paul Scholes has hailed Wayne Rooney after the Manchester United striker equalled Sir Bobby Charlton's record of 249 goals to become the club's joint-leading goalscorer of all-time.

The former United midfielder also explained why he believes that his old club can challenge Premier League leaders Chelsea and win the title.

Rooney opened the scoring in the seventh minute of United's comfortable 4-0 FA Cup third round win over Reading, turning in Juan Mata's cross on the volley with his knee.

The 31-year-old club captain went close to scoring again and claiming the record for himself, but failed to convert several chances in the second half.

Scholes, a United team-mate of Rooney's for nine years during his playing career, praised the striker's “hunger�? after the game and identified when he would like to see Rooney score his 250th.

“It's a great achievement, we said that at half-time,�? Scholes said, while working as an analyst on BT Sport.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

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1/22Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Sergio Romero – 5 out of 10

It was an incredibly easy day at the office for Romero, who remained untested throughout.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Ashley Young – 6 out of 10

It was a disciplined display, with his attacking nature causing problems for the Reading defence down the right.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Chris Smalling – 7 out of 10

Battled relentlessly and created a number of chances from his clearances at the back.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Marcos Rojo – 5 out of 10

Was subbed in the early stages of the game due to an injury.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Daley Blind – 5 out of 10

Was beat by McCleary on occasions, but aside from that he did make a number of crucial interceptions and challenges

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Marouane Fellani – 6 out of 10

He battled persistently in the middle of the park which broke down Reading’s moves at times.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Michael Carrick – 6 out of 10

Provided service up to the United forwards throughout and his experience was visible out there. He led by example.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Juan Mata – 7 out of 10

He was a key element to almost every United attack, but his shooting needs improve significantly.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Wayne Rooney – 9 out of 10

His early goal made club history and his performance today reflected this. He was energetic, determined and created numerous chances. He was a joy to watch.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Anthony Martial – 8 out of 10

His fine run of form continued today, with his pace proving unbearable for the Reading defence. He deserved his goal and created a number of United moves.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Marcus Rashford – 9 out of 10

The young prospect again proved his worth in the starting 11 today, with his unforgiving pace, clever runs and tantalising touches when in possession.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Ali Al-Habsi – 5 out of 10

It was a tough day for the 35-year-old who was under constant pressure from the off, but there is no excuse for his mistake that gave them their fourth goal.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Chris Gunter - 5 out of 10

Made a number of crucial tackles, but as the skipper, he should have done more to raise the tempo and determination of his side.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Liam Moore – 5 out of 10

For a man of such ability, it was a tiresome performance today. He created very few chances and made a habit of losing possession.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Joey Van Den Berg – 6 out of 10

It was a disciplined display from the 35-year-old, but he was outplayed in the middle of the field at times.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Tyler Blackett – 5 out of 10

Failed to make any real impact on the game against his former club, despite confident talk prior to the game.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Danny Williams – 6 out of 10

He battled relentlessly, sparking a particular feud with Fellaini. The 27-year-old appeared to be a well-needed influence in the Reading side.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

George Evans – 7 out of 10

The youngster showed glimpses of brilliance today, with clever through balls and a number of impressive touches.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Garath McCleary – 7 out of 10

Even when his side was battling a four-goal deficit, he continued to charge forward and attempt his skilful runs. He caused United problems at times.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Liam Kelly – 6 out of 10

He looked comfortable and composed in possession. He created chances for the visitors and proved himself to be a promising prospect.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Roy Beerens – 5 out of 10

It was a somewhat mediocre display from the winger, who failed to make an impact or find space throughout.

Manchester United vs Reading player ratings

Yann Kermorgant – 5 out of 10

He lacked any kind of service, so was unable to show his ability. The United defence simply played him out of the game.

“He's been a sensational player for this football club, won many trophies, and the thing that most impresses me is that he's been here for so long but the hunger, the desire is still there.

“I thought today he was very good,�? Scholes added. “He looked sharp, he had great movement, his touch was very good, his all-round game was brilliant. Let's hope he breaks that record against Liverpool.�?

Scholes went on to claim that Jose Mourinho's United now have the momentum to challenge for the Premier League title, having won each of their last seven games in all competitions.

United are currently 10 points behind league leaders Chelsea, but as the top flight's form team, Scholes believes they are more than capable of bridging the gap, starting with victory against Liverpool at Old Trafford on 15 January.

“If United win (against Liverpool) they could be back in championship race, I really think so,�? he said, having claimed that Mourinho's side look like 'the real Manchester United' again before kick-off.

“I don’t think Chelsea are that convincing. City are having their own problems, and if United beat Liverpool next week I think they’re right back in it.�?

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