Wayne Rooney latest: Manchester United could return against Tottenham this weekend

Captain could make earlier than expected return to action

Wayne Rooney (Getty)

Wayne Rooney could return for Manchester United as soon as this weekend's game against Tottenham.

The club captain has not played since mid-February but is nearing a return. It's understood the 30-year-old will undergo another scan this week and if the results are positive, could be in contention to play in Sunday's game at White Hart Lane.

The prospect of facing Rooney will not be welcomed by title-chasing Spurs, with the England captain enjoying a fine record against them. Rooney has scored eight goals in his last 10 Premier League starts against Tottenham.

Fellow injury hit players Ashley Young, Phil Jones, Antonio Valencia and Luke Shaw are also coming back into the first-team picture for Manchester United. Young and Jones were involved with the Manchester United U21s on Monday night, Valencia recently returned to first-team action and Shaw is back in training following a broken leg.

The match on Sunday is crucial for both side's ambitions this season. Tottenham trail league leaders Leicester by seven points, meaning any slips between now and the end of the campaign could end any hopes of winning the title. Meanwhile, United are in a battle to qualify for the Champions League, trailing fourth place Manchester City by one point.