Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney to miss Liverpool tie

Wayne Rooney has been ruled out of Manchester United’s clash with Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Rooney sustained a knee injury during training on Christmas Day but Ferguson had hoped to have the striker fit for Sunday’s crunch tie.

His recovery has taken longer than planned, however, and Ferguson has confirmed that Rooney will not be available until the midweek FA Cup replay against West Ham.

“Wayne’s still out. I’m hoping he starts training today, in which case he won’t be far away,” Ferguson told reporters at Friday’s pre-match press conference.

“I don’t think it’s a big issue but it will help him along. The injury is quite straightforward so if he starts [training] today we should have him available for Wednesday’s game.”

While Rooney’s absence is a blow for Ferguson, the manager will be able to call on both Nani and Anderson for the visit of Liverpool.

Both players have been absent for some time but they have been included in the squad, while Phil Jones is on course to make his return against West Ham on Wednesday.

“Nani’s back in training and will be in the squad on Sunday. Phil Jones is back, although I think Wednesday is more likely for him,” Ferguson confirmed.

“Anderson has been back training for 10 days so he’ll be in the squad on Sunday. All in all, we’re in a healthy situation. How long it will last I don’t know but it’s good to have them back.”