It is an observation that also begs the question of whether United might profit from the ingratiation of more dynamic talent. The club has moved on from great talent in the past - Rooney is no longer even in that category. The tumult will stir few. Key indicators, not least Rooney’s form, suggest the time is right to grant the player his wish of 2010 and 2013 – a transfer somewhere else and a fresh beginning for all.