Sir Alex Ferguson has moved to calm fears about Wayne Rooney’s fitness ahead of the World Cup.
The Manchester United striker limped out of the action 13 minutes from the end of Sunday’s 4-0 win over Stoke, sparking fears about his availability for Fabio Capello’s provisional squad being announced on Tuesday.
But Ferguson stressed he was not too concerned about the 24-year-old.
“He has aggravated his groin again,” said Ferguson. “I don’t think it is serious. I think he will be OK for England.”
Manchester United assistant-boss Mike Phelan was confident that Rooney would be fit to do himself justice in South Africa.
“He should be okay,” he said.
“All the phone calls and all the worries we can dispel straight away.
“He should be fine. It is just a precaution and he will be looking forward to his World Cup.”