Sir Alex Ferguson is confident the future of football is in safe hands as long as players like Manchester United star Wayne Rooney are around.
The England striker is expected to face former club Everton at Old Trafford on Sunday, knowing he will be subjected to another barrage of abuse from the visiting fans, just as he was at Liverpool last weekend.
Yet, Ferguson knows Rooney will respond in the same energetic manner as always, determined to answer his critics in the best way possible - on the pitch.
"Wayne has a wonderful heart for the game," said the United manager.
"Every time the crowd roared at Liverpool last week, he got a free-kick given against him.
"It was ridiculous really but he still has this fantastic enthusiasm to play, no matter what the circumstances.
"It is unusual to see that in such a young player. In a way, it refreshes you and gives you hope the game is going the right way."
