Brunt apologises for Rooney foul

02 January 2011 21:30

Chris Brunt has apologised for the late tackle on Wayne Rooney that could yet consign the Manchester United striker to a period on the sidelines.

Brunt caught Rooney with "a naughty one" during stoppage time as United attempted to catch West Brom on the break in their 2-1 win at The Hawthorns.

"It was a naughty one," admitted Brunt, who was booked. "I did catch him and I apologised."

The England striker immediately pulled up and medical staff decided he could not continue.

However, once on the sidelines, Rooney discovered Sir Alex Ferguson had made all three substitutions and rather than let his team battle through the last few minutes with 10 men, the 25-year-old rushed back on, even though he clearly was not moving freely.

In the immediate aftermath of the game, Ferguson expressed hope Rooney might be fit for Tuesday's encounter with Stoke.

Even if that were the case, it would seem unlikely Ferguson will gamble with his star striker, especially as United's next two opponents are Liverpool and Tottenham.

"I don't want to see anyone injured so I am glad he came back on.

"I was just hoping he didn't get me back but he seemed alright and hopefully it is nothing serious."

Source: PA