England striker Rooney claims last season's domestic and European double has given Sir Alex Ferguson's men even more confidence of winning silverware.

Rooney, 22, said in the Sun: "After our success last year, there will be high expectations but we've got a good enough squad and hopefully we can emulate last season.

"Of course, winning trophies brings you confidence and we're a confident team anyway. But it's given us that bit extra and belief that we're the best in the world.

"Hopefully we can prove that again this season."

Rooney revealed he is relishing building up his match fitness on United's current tour of South Africa - and is even enjoying being tackled.

"It's nice to get tackled again - the sort of things you're used to getting during the season," he said.

"We've enjoyed it. It's good to get back, see the lads and get amongst it again. I can't wait."