Rooney back in three weeks

It had been feared that 24-year-old could be doubtful for this summer's World Cup, although United later confirmed he suffered only minor ligament damage.

Ferguson followed up that bulletin by putting a timescale on Rooney's return and revealed the striker should be back in action within three w

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Rooney underwent scans on Thursday and the vastly-experienced Scottish tactician insists the nation can breathe a sigh of relief that he will be fit for the World Cup in South Africa.

"The nation can breathe again. We're relieved," explained Ferguson. "It could have been worse."

While Ferguson is down that Rooney will miss some big games in the coming weeks he is delighted he will be back in action before the end of what is sure to be a fantastic conclusion to the campaign