Fergie relaxed over Rooney

United boss will let England make a decision on striker's fitness

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 3rd October 2008

Wayne Rooney England striker

Rooney: Injury doubt

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Sir Alex Ferguson will allow England manager Fabio Capello to decide the fate of Wayne Rooney.

The Manchester United striker suffered an ankle injury during the Red Devils' 3-0 victory over Aalborg in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday.

The knock has made him a major doubt for United's Premier League clash with Blackburn on Saturday, with concerns lingering over his prospects of turning out for England in their World Cup qualifying double-header against Kazakhstan and Belarus.

Ferguson can cope with Rooney's absence due to the abundance of attacking talent available to him at Old Trafford, but Capello will be concerned about the prospect of tackling two crucial fixtures without the talismanic front-man.

Ferguson is confident the 22-year-old will be fit for international duty, but is prepared to let the England coaching staff nurture the youngster through the next fortnight.

Test

"I am sure Wayne will be okay for next Saturday," said Ferguson.

"But if they decide to leave him out on Saturday and just play him in one game that is not an issue with me. It is up to Fabio.

"It is not the biggest test for England. I am certain they will win both games whether they have Wayne or not.

"The players they have are more than capable of filling Wayne's boots in these games.

"But it is Fabio's call. He may want to play him in both games or just next Saturday. It is not an issue for me."

England face Kazakhstan at Wembley on 11th October before travelling to Belarus four days later.

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