Rooney back for Reds

in. But they’ve only four points and of course that creates its own headlines."

Sir Alex was asked to comment on reports that the Old Trafford encounter could be Hughes' final fixture before the surprise announcement that the Welshman would not be returning to his old stamping ground.

"I don’t know where that’s come from," he replied. "I’m not privy to that. But realistically if you don’t fancy a manager why wait until next week? I think Tony Fernandez has come out and said he supports Mark and that he wants long-term management."

Mark Bowen and Eddie Niedzwiecki will take temporary charge of team affairs for the trip to Manchester.

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