England News

• Nickname:Three Lions
• Founded: 1872
• Manager:Roy Hodgson

• Ground:Wembley Stadium
• Capacity:90,000

Fergie fears for Rooney

01 May 2006 - 22:19:40

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Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted that he does not think Wayne Rooney will have recovered from his metatarsal injury in time to play for England in this summer's World Cup Finals.

The 20-year-old striker has been told that he faces six weeks out of action after picking up the injury in the closing stages of Saturday's 3-0 defeat at Chelsea.

Ferguson told United's official website: "When you see brave players staying down after a tackle you know it's genuine and he's in pain and that's what I felt with Wayne.

"At first we didn't think it was too bad, but when we sent him for the scan it identified the problem and we realised what a blow it was for the boy and for England.

"Fortunately for us we'll only be without him for two games, but without doubt it's a crippling blow for England.

"I spoke to Wayne on Saturday evening and he was obviously a bit down, but I told him these things happen. You never know but at the moment I doubt that he'll take part in the World Cup because of the recovery time.

"We've spoken to the England doctor and I think it's important that I give as much information as I can to Sven to make sure he's absolutely clear on what road he can take.

"Wayne will be in plaster for the next few weeks and he'll be having regular scans to see how it's healing."