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:
The longtime Mancunian previously missed time earlier this season with a suspension, so Louis 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.
from Bleacher Report http://ift.tt/1vGV4kq
via IFTTT December 02, 2014 at 10:52AM
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