Wayne Rooney (l): Hits back at Paul Scholes

Wayne Rooney says Paul Scholes upset a lot of people at Manchester United when he suggested the England striker was past his best.

Scholes played alongside Rooney for nine years at Old Trafford but recently claimed the 28-year-old's powers may be on the wane.

Rooney says he found Scholes' comments "strange", especially when the former midfielder was part of the United coaching staff towards the end of last year.

I'm sure he's upset a lot of people at Man United because they see me as worthy of signing a new deal at the club, so they obviously have got a different opinion to what Paul has. Wayne Rooney on Paul Scholes

But the England forward is happy that United's hierarchy, who handed him a new deal last season, do not share Scholes' opinion.

"I'm sure he's upset a lot of people at Man United because they see me as worthy of signing a new deal at the club, so they obviously have got a different opinion to what Paul has," Rooney said.

England captain Steven Gerrard hit out at Scholes for his comments, which came out the week Roy Hodgson's men began their World Cup preparations, but Rooney has refused to publicly criticise Scholes.

"It was a bit strange, I'll be honest, but he has his opinions and he's entitled to them," Rooney added.

"I don't agree with it, but he's probably the best player I've ever played with, so I'm not going to knock him as a player, but I don't agree with his point.

"I'm sure he has his reasons for it."

When asked if Scholes had been in touch with him to explain his comments, Rooney said: "No. He's been a great player at Man United, but I've never had his phone number and he's never had mine."