Posted by Betfair's View

Betfair Guest Blogger-

It was perhaps inevitable that Wayne Rooney would grab the headlines on his return to European competition.

His late penalty up at a chilly Ibrox sealed a 1-0 win for Sir Alex Ferguson's men and confirmed their place in the next round. As if to rub salt in Scottish wounds the result also meant Rangers were eliminated and will drop into the Europa League next year.

Rooney's last European goal came in last season's semi-final first leg against Bayern Munich in Germany. That game ended with Rooney limping off with an ankle injury and that seemed to be the start of his recent problems.

He was rushed back two weeks later for the return leg but never looked fully fit as Bayern went through on away goals.

He then missed key league games with that ankle injury as United saw Chelsea win the league title on the final day of the season. He then endured a miserable World Cup with England, which included a post-match, foul-mouthed rant at the England supporters, broadcast live across the world.

He returned home to sordid allegations in the press about his private life before his much publicised contract negotiations, that saw him criticise his team mates and the club's ambition before declaring his desire to leave. His subsequent about-turn and signing of a new contract just 48 hours just added to the bizarreness of Rooney's year.

His goal against Rangers will at least start to heal some of the wounds caused by his outbursts and get people talking about his actions on the pitch once more. Anyone who has placed a Champions League bet on United will have been pleased by his return.

It seems apt that Man United returned to the top of the league and qualified for the Champions League knock out stages the week Rooney returned to the starting line-up. The Champions League betting suggests he can help them push on in the tournament.

With a fully fit Rooney in the side United, who have yet to concede a goal in the Champions League this year, have a player who is a talisman who can make the difference in the big games that matter.