Wayne Rooney should be fit for Manchester United's trip to Bolton
• Rooney did not show up with the injured at Carrington
• Striker had limped away from game against Liverpool
Wayne Rooney scored his 33rd goal of the season during Manchester United's win over Liverpool
Wayne Rooney scored his 33rd goal of the season during Manchester United's win over Liverpool. Photograph: Jon Super/AP
Wayne Rooney should be fit to lead Manchester United's title challenge at Bolton Wanderers this weekend, despite concerns the striker suffered an injury in the defeat of Liverpool.
The England international limped away from Old Trafford on Sunday having scored his 33rd goal of a remarkable campaign in the 2-1 victory over Rafael Benítez's team. United have not confirmed the nature of Rooney's problem but the 24-year-old, who missed the 1-0 win at Wolverhampton Wanderers this month with a knee injury, was not among those players who reported for treatment at the club's Carrington complex today.
Only United's injured contingent were expected at the training ground, with the rest of the first-team squad given the day off, and Rooney's non-appearance has eased fears that he aggravated or sustained a problem during a typically hard‑fought clash with Liverpool.
Rooney suffered inflamed tendons in a kneecap following England's friendly against Egypt on 3 March, when his 86-minute appearance at Wembley prompted Sir Alex Ferguson to suggest the striker's determination to play had contributed to the injury and subsequent absence at Molineux. Sunday marked the striker's 45th game this season, with the demands of the Premier League title race, Champions League and a World Cup to come.
Michael Owen, meanwhile, has admitted he has no chance of featuring this season but remains committed to his contract despite the frustrations of his first season in Manchester.
Owen, who suffered a detached hamstring in the Carling Cup final victory over Aston Villa, also revealed he has an option for a third season at United as part of his free transfer from Newcastle United last summer.
The 30-year-old said: "I had the operation two weeks ago, so I'm going to be on crutches for six weeks now. I'm not allowed to do anything on it for six weeks, so I am definitely out for the season. I'm just looking to next season now. And I'll be back in a United jersey.
"I've got another year left on my contract here and have the option of a third as well. I've had a great time here and I am really looking forward to being back next season."
Meanwhile, Rio Ferdinand has stressed his side's enthusiasm for the pressure of the Premier League title chase. "This is probably the best title run-in for years," said the England captain. "There are three teams in it, which makes it fantastic for the fans and the neutrals to watch."
Guardian