Ander Herrera has jumped to the defence of his Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney.

The 30-year-old's form in recent weeks has come under intense scrutiny as the Red Devils went over six hours without a scoring a goal.

However, having seen Rooney end the drought with his header during last night's Champions League clash against CSKA Moscow at Old Trafford, Herrera has insisted that the United captain is "one of the best" players in world football.

"I try to not read them too much. I create my own opinion and my opinion is clear - Wayne Rooney is one of the best," the Spanish midfielder told the club's official website.

"Yes of course it was a relief when he scored. Wayne is one of the most important players for us. He is our leader, our captain and we are happy when he scores. But when he doesn't, he fights for the team and helps a lot. He is one of the best players in the world, one of the stars and he is not selfish."

Rooney is United's leading goalscorer this term, having found the net seven times in all competitions.