Sir Alex Ferguson has hit out at the media, claiming that they have found "another Paul Gascoigne" in Wayne Rooney.

Reports this week have alleged that the Scot's relationship with the striker is beyond repair after he was fined and dropped on Boxing Day.

There has even been some suggestion that Manchester United will sell the 26-year-old in the summer. However the club and player have quickly distanced themselves from the rumours.

Now Ferguson has compared the media's obsession with Rooney to the situation of Paul Gascoigne, who became notable for a series of lurid off-field headlines.

"There is absolutely no problem with Wayne Rooney," said Ferguson.

"You hear this stuff all the time and what Wayne has to realise is the media have another Paul Gascoigne.

"They have a headline maker, whether it is good or bad, and Wayne is going to have to suffer that."

Rooney scored two goals in the 3-2 win over rivals Manchester City yesterday.