Rooney may be ‘rested’ during start of Premier League season

LONDON - Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has said that striker Wayne Rooney could miss the start of the season following his decision to give extended rest to World Cup players.

“Winning is part of what we have to do here, but the main object is to get everyone game time and come back ready, fit to start the season. Even the Community Shield does not come into it in terms of a need-to-win game. It’s the final part of our preparation,” The Sun quoted Ferguson, as saying.

“It’s on August 8 and then they have internationals that week, and then we have our first game the following Monday against Newcastle. By that time, after we’ve surveyed the fitness of the ones who’ve been in the World Cup because they don’t come back until July 28.”

“We’ll know whether any or all should play in the opening game. I have a feeling we’ll probably not play them all,” he added.

Ferguson is aware of possible burn-out with his younger stars, but finds it more difficult to give Rooney a rest, as the club’s top scorer from last season is always so desperate to play.

Rooney hit 34 goals and scooped the PFA and Football Writers’ Player of the Year awards. (ANI)