Manchester United manager

Mourinho was sacked on Tuesday, two days after a dire display in a 3-1 defeat to bitter rivals Liverpool, leaving the Reds 19 points ahead of United in the Premier League table.

A common theme of Mourinho's time at Old Trafford was his incessant demands for greater backing in the transfer market, despite spending a small fortune.

Sections of the media suggested United grew frustrated with Mourinho not getting the best out of players he identified, which meant alternative options were sought after.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho believes Wayne Rooney's form slump started after criticism for an England display.

Rooney has come under fire for his recent performances after United went on a three-match losing run, which they ended with an EFL Cup win over Northampton Town.

The United and England captain has hit back at critics, but Mourinho believes he saw a change in Rooney after his nation's win over Slovakia.

The Portuguese tactician said the response to Rooney's performance in the 1-0 victory this month may have impacted the forward.