Rio Ferdinand believes Wayne Rooney was more than deserving of the reception he got from the Manchester United supporters during their FA Cup tie with Derby County.
Rooney, who is United's all-time record goalscorer with 253 goals, won 11 major trophies during his 13 years at Old Trafford.
The 34-year-old returned to his boyhood club Everton in 2017, before linking up with DC United a year later.
Rooney returned to English football in January of this year, joining the Rams as a player/coach and came face-to-face with his old side on Thursday night.
The former England international received a warm reception from the United faithful, with those inside Pride Park continually singing his name before, during and after the game.
And Ferdinand believes the reception Rooney received was fully justified for the loyal service he gave the Reds.
“Listen when you gave such a great service to one football club, scored that many goals, won that many league titles, that is deserved,” Rooney’s former team-mate told BT Sport after the game.
“He has been a fantastic servant to Manchester United over the years. Young and old fans will always respect and love him.
“We said before the game, we touched on it, he will be respected and people will look at him with more praise once he has retired unfortunately.
“But he is a fantastic footballer, who has given his whole life to football. He is getting the send off he deserves.”
