The media generally anticipates that if Ferguson adopts an attacking formation, Rooney and Hernandez will start.
Long-time Manchester United player Ferdinand also firmly believes Rooney will play a significant role, saying, "When we all need Rooney to step up, he never disappoints."
He considers that the winning goal Rooney scored in the Manchester United vs. Manchester City derby was not only the most spectacular goal scored at Old Trafford this season, but also demonstrated Rooney's formidable impact in major matches, showing he's no longer just a kid.
Ferdinand made a high-profile assessment of Rooney before the match, saying, "Such instances this season are innumerable."
