Rooney believes Red Devils have to make signings

WAYNE ROONEY says Manchester United need to strengthen their squad during the winter transfer window if they are to qualify for the Champions League.

- By MATTHEW ABBOTT

United had five academy players - Bendito Mantato, Jack Fletcher, Shea Lacey, Tyler Fletcher and Tyler Fredricson - among their substitutes for the match against Newcastle United on Boxing Day.

Altay Bayindir, Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee and Tyrell Malacia were the only first-team options on the bench.

Rooney believes the squad Ruben Amorim can call on needs bolstering, saying: “When I look at the squad and the bench, and what they've got there, they really need players in to try to help them challenge to get into the top four.

“Listen, it’s great to see the young players on the bench and getting opportunities, but it needs to be at the right time as well, and it’s not; it’s not sustainable at all.