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Ferguson: Rooney could be ready for Magpies opener

08/08/2008

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed Wayne Rooney is back in training and could face Newcastle United in the Premier League opener.

The England striker has been recovering from a mystery virus he contracted on United's tour of Nigeria.

Rooney had been expected to miss the champions' clash with Kevin Keegan's men on August 17th at Old Trafford.

But Ferguson has revealed the 22-year-old has made a quick recovery from the illness.

"Rooney is starting training today (Friday) but as I said earlier in the week, we have a big job to get him ready for next week," Ferguson told Sky Sports.

"But with seven or eight days' training we may just make it.

"He is much better, the medical reports are good and we think he is clear of the virus.

"Hopefully we will get him ready for the Newcastle game."

Michael Carrick also picked up a virus during the Nigeria trip, where United played Portsmouth in a friendly.

Ferguson said Carrick and Gary Neville, who is struggling with a calf injury, will be fit for Sunday's game with Pompey in the Community Shield.

"Carrick trained yesterday for the first time and hopefully we'll give him some minutes," Ferguson added.

"Nani and Neville will be fit so they will travel also.

"Nani will probably start on Sunday but he is suspended for the game against Newcastle."