He has looked sharp in training and is working hard. I think the move will give him a new lease of life,' Rooney added.

Ronaldo's departure will see Rooney getting back his favourite role as an orthodox striker, rather than out wide. Rooney has struggled to suppress his dislike at being shunted out wide by United manager Alex Ferguson, but he has always remained committed to play wherever selected.

Ronaldo was United's lone striker last season in big games and with Tevez hit 101 goals between them during the past two seasons.

Rooney fired 20 goals last term and Berbatov 14. Owen netted just 10 at Newcastle and his debut strike in a 3-2 win against Malaysia XI, Saturday, was his first since Jan 10.