Wayne Rooney admits he has spent the season "trying to prove himself again" to Manchester United's fans after admitting he made a mistake in requesting a transfer earlier this season.
The 25-year-old England striker looked to be on his way out of Old Trafford after confirming in October he wanted to leave the club after claiming chief executive David Gill had failed to give him assurances about United's ability to attract top-class talent in the future.
Rooney made a swift U-turn and within days had signed a lucrative new deal with United, and after playing a key role in the club's challenge for UEFA Champions League and Premier League success he has admitted he is driven by a desire to right the wrongs of October.
I made a mistake. I'm willing to admit that.
Wayne Rooney, Manchester United forward
"I made a mistake," Rooney told the Guardian. "I'm willing to admit that. I've apologised and ever since then I have wanted to try to prove myself again to the fans. I feel I am doing that now."
Rooney has scored 12 goals in 21 games since the start of 2011, the latest coming in the 2-0 win over Schalke in Gelsenkirchen which has put United within touching distance of the Champions League final at Wembley on 28 May.
"I'm delighted with my form at the minute and I'm grateful to the fans for supporting me through [the transfer demands]," Rooney added. "I hope I've repaid the fans now. I certainly feel vindicated [for deciding to stay]. It's going to be a great end to the season if we can get to Wembley and win a Champions League final as well as the league."
"I am a lot happier in my life, a lot happier with the way I'm playing. It's almost been like having to settle down again and I've done that now."