Wayne Rooney Injury: Updates on Manchester United Star's Status and Return

Wayne Rooney is hoping to regain full fitness after developing a knee injury in Manchester United's win over Hull City. Manager Louis van Gaal said that Rooney would be fit to face Southampton.

Continue for updates.

Friday, Dec. 5

Van Gaal Says Rooney Fit for Southampton

Manchester United's official Twitter feed reported an update on Rooney's status from manager Louis van Gaal:

Thursday, Dec. 4

Rooney Expected to Return at Southampton

The Daily Mirror's David McDonnell reports the news United fans wanted to hear following Rooney's scan:

"

Wayne Rooney is winning his battle to be fit for Manchester United’s trip to Southampton on Monday.

[...] He underwent a scan in Manchester which showed no serious damage, and the striker is likely to be fit for the clash at St Mary’s.

Rooney is set to begin light training on Thursday, which is a major boost for United as they look to continue their winning run.

"

Wednesday, Dec. 3

Van Gaal Confirms Rooney Scan

The United forward will be examined on Wednesday to discover the true extent of his injury, according to quotes from Louis van Gaal provided by the Premier League's official Twitter:

Tuesday, Dec. 2

Rooney Out of Stoke Clash

Manchester United will have to make do without star striker and club captain Wayne Rooney after it was confirmed the England international picked up an injury prior to the Red Devils' clash with Stoke City on Tuesday. The team announced that Rooney would not be starting the midweek clash:

Louis van Gaal later discussed why Rooney is out of the team:

The longtime Mancunian previously missed time earlier this season with a suspension, so van Gaal and Company already know what they're in store for.

While the Red Devils booked solid results in his absence, it was clear the 29-year-old's drive and raw scoring ability was sorely missed. Club legend Andrew Cole spoke on the type of boost the squad would get from his return, as reported by the Daily Mail's Paul Hirst:

"

He has got to be raring to go.

He is a professional footballer. When you miss games through injury or illness or suspension, you are going to be disappointed.

I have no doubt he will be chomping at the bit now and ready to go having missed three games.

It's going to be a massive boost to have a player of his quality back.

"

Rooney is third on the club's all-time top scorers' list, a testament to both his consistent production and unique skill set. Van Gaal has the option to employ him behind the striker or move him further forward, and he can even play in a wide role if needed.

With Robin van Persie struggling and Radamel Falcao yet to adapt to life in England, Rooney has been tasked with carrying much of the scoring load. Losing him for an extended period of time would be devastating for the club with an eye on the race for a top-four finish and the accompanying Champions League ticket.

Others will now have to step up in the forward's absence, while fans must hope their captain will be making his return to the pitch soon enough.