Rooney hits back at diving claims

Wayne Rooney has hit back at claims he dived to get Bayern Munich's goalscorer Bastian Schweinsteiger sent off in the 1–1 Champions League quarter–final first leg at Old Trafford.

The Bayern midfielder, who will be suspended for the return leg in Munich, appeared to make a diving gesture after the incident.

Schweinsteiger spoke to Rooney afterwards but the England striker insisted the challenge was a foul and he was forced into evasive action to avoid getting hurt.

Rooney said: "I thought it was a foul. If I didn't get out of the way he could have hurt me. It's not nice to see anyone get sent off. I didn't try to get him sent off, the referee has made the decision.”

David Moyes' men had only 26 per cent of possession, an all–time low for the club in the Champions League, yet enjoyed the better chances.

Rooney admitted it could have been even better for United if Danny Welbeck hadn’t squandered a chance when one–on–one with the Bayern keeper.

The 28 year old admits Bayern remain favourites but that a win in Munich would keep United's troubled season alive.

He added: "I think it was a good result, with the way the season has gone. We are still in the tie.

"They are favourites for the tournament and it will be a tough ask over there but all we could do is make sure we stay in the tie and give ourselves a chance.”