Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has sympathised with Wayne Rooney over his current situation and the former winger believes the striker is receiving mixed messages.

Rooney has received criticism this season and there are question marks over his long-term future for both United and England.

Jose Mourinho, who took charge at Old Trafford this summer, has already made the decision to drop his club captain to the bench whilst Gareth Southgate also axed him for Wednesday’s 0-0 draw in Slovenia.

A huge debate has rumbled on over the 30-year-old’s best position, and whether number 10 or a midfield role is the better option.

For United, the former Everton star has been deployed behind the striker but, for England, dropping into a deeper, quarter-back style role has been used.

Rooney says he is happy to play anywhere on the pitch but Giggs, who was assistant manager for the Red Devils last season, believes the lack of a declared position is a problem.

“I feel a little bit sorry for him,” the Welshman said on ITV. “Towards the end of last season, and for England in the summer, he was played in that deeper role, then he was told he’s playing as a number nine or a number 10.

He’s probably a bit confused.” Rooney will be hoping to play some part for United on Monday when they return to Premier League action at fierce rivals Liverpool.

The Reds, who have started well under German tactician Jurgen Klopp, are 2.15 favourites to claim all the spoils, the draw is priced at 3.50 while the visitors are also 3.50.