Rooney came on as a second-half substitute in the 2-0 defeat of Wigan for his first appearance since the much-publicised contract negotiations that saw him declare his intention to leave Old Trafford before signing a lucrative five-year extension.

He has also been struggling with both form and fitness this season but was handed a generally positive reception by the United fans - though there was audible booing from some sections.

Speaking to MUTV, he said: "I've been out for a long time, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't worried about the reaction from the fans but the reception was brilliant and I just tried to help the team win and score goals.

"It (the crowd response) was brilliant. I can understand fans' frustrations with the contract negotiations, obviously it happened in the public eye which made it more difficult. But at the end of the day the main thing for myself and the club is that we managed to agree that deal.

"I've signed a new deal to stay here and my long-term future is at Man United."

The England striker also scotched suggestions that some of his United team-mates had been giving him the cold shoulder following the episode.

"The players have been fine," he said.

"There's no problem whatsoever since the negotiations, not before or after. The press have probably made a big issue out of nothing.

"I always made it aware I wanted to be at this club. I had my concerns and voiced my opinion but at the end of the day I'm delighted that my long-term future is at United,

"I want to to help the young players the way Giggsy, Gary Neville and Scholesy have helped me. I want to be here and to continue to make this club successful."