Rooney to make timely return in Sunderland clash

Manchester United effectively ended their title bid with the 3-1 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, with even top 4 finish now in serious doubt.

In all fairness, nobody expected the Red Devils to produce an upset on Sunday with key players Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie missing, but they obviously need to show some improvement as quickly as possible.

The second leg of their Capital One Cup semi-final tie against Sunderland will provide a perfect opportunity for David Moyes’ charges to make amends for the Chelsea defeat, but they now need to overturn a one-goal deficit in order to book their place in the final at Wembley.

Manchester United boss has finally received some good news as it appears Wayne Rooney will recover in time to start against the Black Cats, which is probably the main reason why the Red Devils are 2/5 to qualify.

The hosts will be without captain Nemanja Vidic, who was sent off against Chelsea, with Patrice Evra doubtful and Robin van Persie, Marouane Fellaini and Fabio definitely out.

Having won the first leg 2-1, Sunderland are hoping to provide an upset at Old Trafford with the help of 9,000 travelling fans, and the Black Cats are 7/4 to make it to the final.

Gus Poyet’s side are currently on a four-match unbeaten run after coming from two goals down to earn a draw against Southampton, with only Keiren Westwood and Carlos Cuellar unavailable.