Wayne Rooney given two days off by Manchester United

David Moyes uses suspension to give striker a rest

(GETTY IMAGES)

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