The boss says the captain will play.
Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says that captain Wayne Rooney will be fit to play against Manchester City in the Manchester Derby on Sunday despite reports of an injury.
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The Dutchman has refuted claims that Rooney was a doubt for the Premier League clash, but has admitted that fellow striker Radamel Falcao will be absent at the Etihad Stadium.
Louis van Gaal confirms Wayne Rooney is fit for the derby but Falcao misses out through injury. Antonio Valencia could also feature. #mufc
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 31, 2014
“He was never injured,” van Gaal adds on Rooney. “He shall play, he is my captain.” #mufc
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 31, 2014
The England skipper has missed the last three matches for the Red Devils through suspension after being sent off during the 2-1 league victory over West Ham United.
With Falcao missing van Gaal is likely to include Rooney in his starting XI with Robin van Persie having to play upfront alone during their last outing against Chelsea last weekend.
The Netherlands international did score in that encounter and the boss will be hoping the two forwards are in good form against the reigning champions.
City have been on a poor run of late, having lost to Newcastle United and West Ham in their last two fixtures and also throwing away a two goal lead to draw with CSKA Moscow in the Champions League in the game before that.