Manchester United: Wayne Rooney Watch (Update)

Bayern Munchen stole the show in the second half, winning 2-1 against Manchester United.  The final minutes of the game proved eventual, yielding both the 90th minute goal by Ivina Olic and an injury to star United striker, Wayne Rooney.

The right ankle injury to Rooney has wide-reaching consequences for potentially three tournaments.  He limped off the field with the help of trainers—not a good sign.  It should be monitored and more information will likely come later today or tomorrow.

UPDATE: It seems that Rooney will be sidelined for two to four weeks, along England's fans to breath easy for the World Cup.  However, Manchester United still has to deal with his temporary bench time.

Champions League

Rooney scored the opening goal for United in the second minute of the game.  United proceeded to hold strong for the first half, not yielding the equalizer until the 77th minute of play to Franck Ribery.

With the away goal notched on the score board, United could win the series with a 1-0 victory in the second leg.  However, their star striker could see the sidelines.

If Munchen plays as they did in yesterday's second half, United will need all the help it can get at Old Trafford.

Premier League

This Saturday's match against Chelsea is the turning point to put one of the clubs in the top spot.

If Rooney does not participate, the pressure will be on United's defense to keep Didier Drogba, Chelsea's top striker and nearly Rooney's goal-scoring equal, from putting one back for the Blues.  A draw for United still keeps them on top, ahead by one point.

In addition, if the injury keeps Rooney out for multiple weeks, it becomes a much harder task for United to win out and hold on to the top spot.

World Cup

The Cup is just around the corner, with the roster submission date looming.  Of course, Rooney will be on the team, but a severe injury could keep him out of the group phase.

England should be able to cope without the star, but it's still a storyline to watch.  It makes an upset all the more possible.

Keep your eyes open for an official report on Rooney's condition.  Its effect on the aging roster of United stars could be the catalyst for upsets.