Wayne Rooney's transfer request stupid: Ryan Giggs

Manchester United longest-serving player Ryan Giggs has labelled the timing of Wayne Rooney's transfer request as 'stupid'.

Rooney rocked Old Trafford earlier in the season when he handed in a transfer request and questioned the club's ambition.

Indeed, what seemed to really rile United fans was that their star striker was being linked with rivals Manchester City and that his request was submitted before an important Champions League game.

The issue was resolved when Rooney signed a new deal making him the club's highest-paid player but his actions at the time where viewed dimly by Giggs.

Champions League
"It was before a Champions League game, the timing was stupid, but deep down I thought he would stay and it would be sorted out," he told Inside United.

"The fans, and probably me to an extent and a lot of the players, what really got our backs up was as soon as City were mentioned.

"For me, as a United fan, as soon as you hear City being talked about, you think, well, that can't happen.

"I was surprised, just like everyone else, but I didn't feel let down. He had more than enough people in the dressing room who are closer to him talking to him, so I left it. I didn't really get involved."

Voted
Giggs has recently been voted the greatest ever United player by Inside United readers in a career that has spanned 20 years and garnered 23 major medals and 859 appearances.

At 37, the former Welsh international is the most decorated player in the British game, but his self-effacing manner still allows him to take this latest accolade in his stride.

"You've got to have done it on the pitch, and have that affinity with the fans whereby they know that you have always given your all," he added.

"Humbleness is very important - you have to remember you're lucky to be playing for, or to have played for, such a great club."