Alex Ferguson has given his word that Wayne Rooney will be a Manchester United player next season, meaning that the striker should be offered a new deal in the summer.

Ferguson’s decision to drop Rooney from the side to face Real Madrid on Tuesday in the Champions League caused uncertainty regarding the forward’s long-term future, especially since United do not allow players under 30 that they wish to retain enter the final 12 months of their contracts because their bargaining position strengthens and their value decreases.

But Ferguson yesterday ruled out the possibility of allowing Rooney to leave in the summer and United are instead expected to open negotiations over an extension.

“He will be here next year, you have my word on that,” Ferguson said. “There’s absolutely no issue between Wayne Rooney and I.”