Rooney can go to Spain with England: Ferguson

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has given England coach Fabio Capello the green light to use Wayne Rooney in next week’s friendly in Spain.

Rooney has not played since limping out of United’s 1-0 win over Wigan soon after scoring on January 14 because of a hamstring injury.

The striker will not start United’s game with West Ham United on Sunday, but Ferguson said that the player is close to a return to action.

He plans to talk to Capello late on Friday to outline the situation but said he would not have any objections if Rooney played a bit-part role in England’s first friendly of 2009.

But Ferguson does not expect the 23-year-old, who has scored 14 times for club and country this season, to start for England next Wednesday.

“I hope to speak to Fabio Capello today to explain the situation,” said Ferguson.

“I’ve no strong issues about him taking him to Seville.

“It’s entirely up to Fabio whether he takes him over to Seville to use him as a sub.”

With United not playing until Sunday, Ferguson’s side will lose their grip at the top of the Premier League table if Liverpool win at Portsmouth on Saturday.

But Ferguson insists his side is bang in form after winning the last seven league games.

United have lost their last two games at West Ham but Ferguson has shrugged off concerns about his side’s disappointing record in London.

They have won once in nine visits to the capital having failed to win on their last four visits.

“West Ham is a difficult game,” added Ferguson, who praised the impact Gianfranco Zola has made at Upton Park since he took over as manager last September.

“We have lost there twice recently so we know the extent of the challenge facing us.

“Given the fact that he (Zola) has had to sell players, he has done a remarkable job.

“It can’t be easy with that situation so he’s done a very good job. As for our recent record down there, it’s just one of those things.

“We’ve had good runs down there in the past and we are in our best form at the moment. The team wants to win every game.”

As well as Rooney, Patrice Evra is also not ready to start for United because of foot and ankle problems. Midfielder Michael Carrick is also a doubt because of illness.

However, there is some good news for Ferguson on the injury front.

Portuguese international Nani is available after a groin injury while Rafael is also clos to a return after a hamstring problem.

Young Republic of Ireland international Jonny Evans, who has been in impressive form this season, is also close to making a full recovery from foot and ankle problems.

Their availability will give Ferguson a major boost as the United manager chases his third successive Premier League crown.

“A few weeks ago it didn’t look so good on the injury front,” said Ferguson.

“But we’re starting to get there now.”