Rooney to play but Falcao ruled out

Rooney to play but Falcao ruled out

Wayne Rooney will lead Manchester United into derby combat against neighbours City on Sunday but Radamel Falcao has been ruled out through injury.

Louis van Gaal addressed the press on Friday to provide the team news ahead of the Etihad Stadium encounter and laughed off erroneous reports suggesting Rooney was a doubt with a foot problem. The captain returns from a three-match ban but Falcao remains sidelined after missing last week's draw with Chelsea.

Antonio Valencia is available again while Marouane Fellaini has a strong case for retaining his place in midfield after displaying excellent form of late.

"Rooney was not injured," asserted van Gaal. "The media was writing that but he was never injured. Maybe his shoes were too tight, that is possible, but he was never injured.

"He shall play, he is my captain. That is all I can say to you. Falcao is still injured. I have heard that he [Rooney] has scored a lot of goals against City, the most of any player. I said it to him to stimulate him but he doesn't need that. I am very happy that he can play again and he shall play."

Meanwhile, Fellaini will hope to be involved following his efforts against Chelsea when his header led to Robin van Persie's dramatic equaliser.

"He had a great contribution and also provided the assist for the goal," added the boss. "He did it [made a contribution] several times. He had a lot of time injured but, when he was fit, I have played him. He has to continue with that because then I am very pleased."