Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney had no problem playing in midfield for victory over Liverpool.

In the summer the United skipper said he was reluctant to play in midfield at this stage of his career, but he was happy to operate there on Sunday.

And Rooney believes the move could be beneficial long-term.

"I think it can help me in years to come," he said.

"You see top players retire like Michael Owen, for instance.

"He was one of the world's best players but I don't think he could drop back into midfield so once his pace had gone through injuries that was kind of the end.

"But I feel I can drop back and I am sure it will give me an extra few years at the end of my career and it will also help me if I go into management."