Wayne Rooney managed to shut up his critics after putting together a fine performance with Manchester United. The team's captain ended a ten-game drought in all competitions for the Red Devils by scoring a hat-trick against Club Brugge, leading Louis Van Gaal's crew to the Champions League Group Stage after defeating the Belgian side 4-0.
Rooney scored his first goal of the evening 12 minutes after the game started, putting to good use an assist by Memphis Depay. His next goal before the 60th minute mark, following Ander Herrera's cross. Finally, Juan Mata dribbled past a couple of players and ended up feeding the ball to the English international inside Brugge's box for a tap-in.
This was Rooney's second hat-trick for Man United in an European competition, becoming the third ever player to do so for the Red Devils behind Denis Law and Andy Cole.
Fans were delighted by Rooney's display in Belgium. Here are their best reactions.
This is exactly wht Rooney needed. Such a confidence player. Has it been frustrating? Of course but carry this through to PL & he'll be fine
— Hayley B (@Hayles_101) August 26, 2015
Before tonight Wayne Rooney hadn't scored in 10 games. He's now United's top scorer this season. pic.twitter.com/9wEThI0R2w
— Football Trolls (@Footballltrolls) August 26, 2015
Lol at the people who wanted Rooney dropped tonight
— Jessica (@JuanAndOnlyJess) August 26, 2015
All the lads in the barbers today tryna tell me Rooney is finished good knowledge lads
— nicky adams (@nickyadams10) August 26, 2015
Wayne Rooney with his first #ChampionsLeague hat-trick since 2004! Is he back? pic.twitter.com/UdqP6OXDv8
— Juan Direction (@JuanDirection57) August 26, 2015
Shout out to all the people who said Rooney won't even score one
— Prince Josh (@TheBurntChip) August 26, 2015
Even the team's Twitter feed had something to say about Rooney's display.
Wayne Rooney, hat-trick hero. #mufc pic.twitter.com/ujuymXRdh8
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 26, 2015 
