Wayne Rooney given two days off by Manchester United
David Moyes uses suspension to give striker a rest
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Wayne Rooney has been handed two days off to recharge his batteries by Manchester United manager David Moyes.
Rooney has been in outstanding form this season, scoring 10 goals for United in all competitions after it had appeared he would be leaving Old Trafford.
Moyes has been credited with winning the 28-year-old round, although in more recent weeks the Scot has been more concerned with trying to give Rooney some rest given his heavy workload, which has only increased since the absence of Robin van Persie.
The opportunity has arisen after Rooney picked up his fifth booking of the campaign in Wednesday's defeat by Everton, meaning he is suspended for the weekend engagement with Newcastle at Old Trafford.
And Moyes has taken it.
"It is a big loss to lose Wayne," said the Red Devils chief.
"But it was always going to be the case at some point because we have not had a chance to rest him or give him a break.
"This has given us an opportunity so he has been given Friday and Saturday off.
"They are probably the only days he has had off this year."
It is anticipated Rooney will return to training ahead of Tuesday's Champions League encounter with Shakhtar Donetsk when United must avoid defeat to secure top spot in Group A and avoid most of Europe's heavyweights in the knockout round draw.
"Obviously we would rather him not be suspended," said Moyes.
"But he is and we have to try and make the most of it.
"We need to keep Wayne fresh and ready to play because he has been in great form all season.
"We have been really pleased with him."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments