Midfielder Marouane Fellaini's career progression so far
The Belgian struggled under David Moyes - the man who brought him to United from Everton - but has hit form under Louis van Gaal.
And Rooney believes Fellaini is an absolute world-beater when used correctly.
He said: “He is getting used in the right way.
He is probably the best in world football at bringing the ball down and getting us out of pressure and further up the pitch.
Wayne Rooney
“He is a handful for defenders to mark. We like to play out from the back and if teams are pressing us then we have him as an option.
“He is probably the best in world football at bringing the ball down and getting us out of pressure and further up the pitch. He is being used in the right way by the manager and he is repaying that with goals and good performances.”
Speaking about Fellaini's first season at United, Rooney added: “It was tough for him but he had the whole team's support.
"He kept his head down, worked hard and came through that period. He is showing now what he did at Everton and why Manchester United bought him.
GETTY
Wayne Rooney never lost faith in Marouane Fellaini
"He is a quality player. He is a different option for us. It is starting to show on the pitch.
"We knew he was working hard last season and it wasn't just him who was struggling - a lot of us were.
"He was the one who took most of the blame for it. It was hard for him. Thankfully the manager has shown faith in him."
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
