Wayne Rooney could feature in Manchester United’s opening Premier League fixture of the new season after all.

It was thought that a mystery virus, picked up on United pre season tour of Nigeria, would keep the England international on the sidelines but he’s now back in training and hopes to be fit for the encounter with Newcastle at Old Trafford.

However, his participation is by no means a certainty.

“We’ve got a big job to do to get Rooney ready,” said Sir Alex Ferguson.

“With seven or eight days training we might make it. He is doing much better, the medical reports are good and we feel that he’s clear of the virus.”

However, he is certain to miss the Community Shield against Portsmouth this Sunday.

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