He's very poor in midfield, largely because he isn't really that good a player anyway in my opinion. Persie is obviously the more technical and skilful player, hence even he performing better in midfield. He is a better manipulator of the ball up front, and naturally the same in midfield.
I've maintained all season that all three of our strikers are not good enough anymore. Watching Rooney play up top, yes - he isn't awful but you still wouldn't get the hype if you had only read of his profile. If I had a choice I would even rather Benteke lead the line for us, and even he is only Benteke.
Rooney has a bigger profile than the likes of Suarez and Aguero, and is paid similarly to Messi and Ronaldo. He is vastly overrated, and an 18 goal striker at best today I'd say, and that includes penalties.