Rooney reveals key MU game he 'shouldn't have played' and skipped after-party

Wayne Rooney revealed he should not have played in Manchester United's famous 3-1 Champions League win over Arsenal in 2008-09.

The Red Devils came into the semi-final tie at the Emirates Stadium with a 1-0 lead, looking to book a second straight spot in the Champions League final having beaten Chelsea to the trophy in 2008.

And Sir Alex Ferguson's men took care of business in north London, thanks to Cristiano Ronaldo's brace and a cherry on top from Ji-Sung Park, teeing up a final against Barcelona which United went on to lose 2-0.

Ronaldo's second goal came after a sensational counter-attack which started in United's own box, and ended with him combining with Rooney to finish.

Following the 4-1 aggregate victory, United's celebrations continued off the field as the squad held an after-party.

But Rooney, who was pivotal in his side's dominant showing, has now revealed he should not have even been on the pitch in the first place.

The England legend explained that he was ill on the day and did not even make the post-match celebrations, instead opting to head straight to bed.

'I shouldn't have played this game, I wasn't well at all,' Rooney said.

'The doctor gave me a load of medication to get me through the game. We had a bit of a party after this game but I didn't go, I went straight to bed.'

Regarding his involvement in United's famous counter-attacking goal with Ronaldo, Rooney explained that it was a tactical adjustment from Sir Alex that helped carve open Arsenal.

He added: 'We knew how to play against Arsenal for many years. We'd change our game, we'd play a lot more defensive. We'd play a low block, and like that goal there, we'd try to hit them on the break.

'To win any major competition, to win the Champions League especially, you have to adapt to certain games and certain opposition.'