That's the Man United DNA — Wayne Rooney lauds Red Devils performance against Man City

Former Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney has lauded the Red Devils for their relentless performance against crosstown rivals Manchester City, noting that they showed signs of the club’s DNA.

As Pulse Sports reported, interim boss Michael Carrick secured his first win as Manchester United head coach on the grandest occasion possible, beating Pep Guardiola's Manchester City 2-0.

Second-half goals from AFCON returnee Bryan Mbeumo, as well as Patrick Dorgu, ensured a comfortable first Manchester Derby for Carrick as he auditions for the Manchester United job on a permanent basis, despite a late Mason Mount goal being ruled out.

Rooney could not cage his excitement after the game, lauding the team's grit, passion, and persistence as he stressed that those qualities are what have been lacking.

“Obviously, I’m absolutely delighted,” he said, per the BBC. “I think the team spirit, the work rate, the energy, and everything about that team was fantastic today. I’m absolutely buzzing for the players, for the fans – the fans have been starved of that over the last few years. I know it’s only one performance but I think everyone could see how exciting that team can be.

“You hear everyone, especially us as ex-players, talk about the United DNA, and that has just shown what it is. Work rate off the ball, wingers getting back, filling in and helping out the full-backs.

“And the goals; crosses in the box and desire to get on the end of it. The first goal, counter-attack, sitting in and breaking fast – that is the United DNA and that was what we've been missing. And hopefully this continues.

“The work rate, the shape, the organisation of Manchester United today, the desire to get back and double up and help your teammates out and tackle and run without the ball as quickly backwards and you do forwards. I think that was really evident today.”