Wayne Rooney to Thrive on Ronaldo Exit

Cristiano Ronaldo's impending world-record transfer to Real Madrid will give Wayne Rooney the opportunity to stake a long-term claim for a central striking role at Old Trafford.

The England ace has been craving a continued crack down the middle with Manchester United and the chance to forge an effective partnership with Dimitar Berbatov.

Rooney's recent displays for England show just how dangerous he can be playing centrally and his two goals in the 6-0 win over Andorra on Wednesday have taken his tally to 10 goals in his last seven England internationals.

Sir Alex Ferguson last season often used Rooney on the left of a three-pronged forward line and in the Champions League semifinal and final, Ronaldo played down the middle with Ji-Sung Park on the right.

It's a position that Rooney has filled admirably, but let's face it, Rooney is the type of whole-hearted player who would give his all in any position—even in goal.

He very rarely speaks about his desire to play as a central striker, probably out of respect for Sir Alex, but there's no doubt about the fact he would prefer to play down the middle, where he can be a bigger goal threat.

With Ronaldo seemingly on his way to Real Madrid for 'silly' money, Sir Alex looks set to sign Carlos Tevez on a permanent basis, but he will still be in the market for another forward.

Antonio Valencia, Franck Ribery and Karim Benzema are all names who have been linked with United as they try and draw a line under the exit of the World Player of the Year.

United undeniably will miss the goals of Ronaldo, but Fergie has sold big players in the past such as Eric Cantona, David Beckham and Ruud van Nistelrooy and still managed to put together world-class teams and now will be no different.