Rooney and Fergie's Rift

Man Scum striker Wayne Rooney has denied a rift with manager Fergie after travelling separately from the rest of the scum following a friendly against Clyde at the weekend.

Rooney, the 19-year-old England forward, had arranged alternative transport prior to the friendly against the Scottish Division One side at Broadwood Stadium, according to the player's representatives.

"Contrary to reports, Wayne Rooney did seek and obtain the permission of Manchester United's team manager to return from a pre-season friendly at Clyde separately from his team-mates and in his own transport," said a spokesman for the player in a statement.

While Rooney's travel arrangements at the weekend have been explained, there still appears to be disharmony with Rio Ferdinand's relationship with United fans.

Ferdinand, whose reluctance to sign a new £100,000-a-week contract has provoked Ferguson's anger, was jeered every time he touched the ball.