Robin van Persie has grabbed the limelight after his two goals on Tuesday night ensured United were able to overturn yet another first-half deficit as they recorded a 2-1 Champions League win over CFR Cluj in Romania.

It followed on from his match-winning hat-trick against Southampton last month, and the nerveless late penalty at Anfield as United ended their winless streak at Liverpool 10 days ago.

In comparison, Rooney has been in the shadows.

Dropped after a lacklustre opening game at Everton, then injured, his fitness questioned and the debate fuelled by comments in his own autobiography that actually related to four seasons ago, Rooney only returned to the fray against Newcastle last week.

Since then though, his influence has grown steadily. And whilst Van Persie grabbed the goal-scoring headlines last night, it was Rooney who claimed the assist on both occasions.

"People criticise really easily," said Evra.

"They were talking about Robin so much I thought we've just got one striker.

"Robin's an amazing player and that's good, but people mustn't forget what Wayne has done for this club.

"He's a big, massive player and looked really sharp last night.

"When someone new comes, everyone is excited and forgets the old things. But Wayne will show it to everyone exactly what he can do."