This was a conversation that was had on the latest Football Ramble - unfortunately I don't know who is who so I am not sure which member said this.

'I think he (Mourinho) would look to phase Rooney out next summer but I think if he were to come in now and say, 'Right you're on the bench' he may anger the fans, he may cause a bit of controversy.

Mourinho has wanted this job for ages and this is perhaps the only club that Mourinho will actually exercise a bit of humility and so I think he is trying to play the long game. If he bombs Rooney out now I think it's too early whereas if he phases him out slowly the fans can go 'yeah he needs to move on'"

I think it is an interesting point to note that Mourinho wants this to be a long term job and not to lose the dressing room which has happened at previous clubs. I think this could be the reason why Rooney has not been dropped, less to do with the fans and more to do with the dressing room.

The conversation continued on whether Mourinho would essentially sacrifice the title if Rooney continues to play which one of the case believes he would do in order to get his way.

Thought this was worth sharing.