England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has admitted that Wayne Rooney needs a “miracle” to be fit for the World Cup, after the latest scan revealed that the striker had suffered multiple fractures of his right foot.
Eriksson said: “I knew yesterday [Tuesday] that he had more than one fracture. Miracles happen in life now and then, but I don’t really know.”
United believe Rooney is six weeks away from training but Eriksson still plans to include him in his squad.
England and Manchester United’s medical teams will meet on Thursday to discuss Rooney’s chances of making the finals.
Rooney broke his foot against Chelsea on Saturday and an initial scan after the match revealed just one fracture.
Despite reports claiming that the 20-year-old would miss the World Cup, United’s medical staff have not ruled out an apppearance at the finals.
A statement said: “Despite stories in the press we believe Wayne is still six weeks away from full training.”
Eriksson added: “I will probably name him on Monday. It will be 26 or maybe 27 players.
“I will not rule him out until the doctors tell me there is no chance. No-one wants that to happen, everyone hopes he can take part in the World Cup at some stage.”
“I will be updated on Thursday because our doctor goes to Manchester to see [club doctor] Mike Stone.”
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