Robin van Persie will make his highly-anticipated return to Old Trafford on Thursday when his Fenerbahce side face Manchester United in the Europa League.
The Dutchman was sold by Louis van Gaal in 2015 for £3.84 million having joined the Red Devils three years earlier from rivals Arsenal.
And what a player he was at the Theatre of Dreams. In his debut season, Van Persie almost single-handedly steered United to the Premier League title with his 26 league goals.
Injuries would curtail the 33-year-old’s final two years in Manchester but so well respected is he by the club’s fans that he will be given a hero’s welcome when he turns up against Jose Mourinho’s side.
One current player that is particularly relishing Van Persie’s return, though, is Wayne Rooney.
The attacking pair forged a fantastic strike partnership during their time together, with Rooney often the provider and Van Persie the finisher.
So excited is United’s captain about facing his former teammate that he’s dedicated a rather lovely Instagram post to him (see below).
The caption says: “Solid performance last night in a tough game. Looking forward to the next match on Thursday against Fenerbahce and seeing my old teammate and friend @robinvanpersie!”
Rooney will only hope Mourinho opts to start him against Fenerbahce having started as a sub against Liverpool on Monday.
The 30-year-old, who turns 31 next week, remains determined to fight for his place and believes he still has an important role to play for a club he joined 12 years ago.
He said, per Manchester Evening News: “I want to play. I have to try and do my job for the team and wait for my chance and take it when I get it.
“I like to think I can play every game, but obviously it’s the manger’s decision and I respect that. I will be ready when I’m needed.
“You have to have a positive attitude and that’s what I have. I prepare exactly the same as if I’m starting the game. I’ll make sure I’m ready and have no excuse when I’m needed.
“I’ve started through all my career, this is a new challenge, it is a new period, of course, I want to play.
“I just have to keep working and get into the team and I’m sure my chances will come I know that and then it is up to me to take them.”