A victory for Sir Alex

So Wayne Rooney has taken the decision to stay at Manchester United. It's an astonishing climbdown after two days earlier he had accused the club of a lack of ambition. The decision has divided opinion and the Daily Telegraph's Henry Winter feels it is a victory for common sense and Sir Alex Ferguson.

"A footballer of many tricks, Wayne Rooney has now added the U-turn to his inventory – and it's the best thing for everyone.

Manchester United's No 10 still has some proper apologising to do, to his team-mates, manager and fans, not to mention those members of a recession-hit society scandalised by one man's greed, but his decision to remain at Old Trafford should stir a touch of relief. It seemed a victory of sorts.

This was certainly a victory for all managers, for all of those like Sir Alex Ferguson who want stability in their dressing room, who demand respect from players in return for the handsome riches bestowed on them.

Ferguson has handled the Rooney saga adroitly, effortlessly winning the publicity battle and then winning back his star.

Cynics will argue that the five-year deal ensures Rooney is worth £50 million-plus in the transfer market and could still leave. But it has to be a victory for Ferguson as his No 10 must now prove his worth, reminding the paying public and watching world of the talents that made him Footballer of the Year. It is time for Rooney to focus on silverware, not gold, on destroying opposing defences not his own popularity. He has a lot of work to do."