• Champions League

Rooney expected to face Benfica

ESPN staff
November 21, 2011
Chris Smalling has developed into a towering presence at the back for Manchester United © Getty Images
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Chris Smalling has been ruled out of Manchester United's Champions League clash with Benfica but Sir Alex Ferguson expects Wayne Rooney to shake off injury to figure.

Smalling has developed into a key player for United since making the move from Fulham and his versatility has proved invaluable to Ferguson.

The defender trained on Monday, but a foot injury has ruled him out of the visit of Benfica.

"Chris Smalling trained but won't be available tomorrow. He should be okay by Saturday," Ferguson said.

Rooney picked up a couple of knocks in the win over Swansea and sat out training, but should be fit to take on the Portuguese side.

"We have one or two knocks from Saturday," Ferguson said. "Jonny Evans got a tightness in his hamstring yesterday, that hopefully will be okay by tomorrow.

"Wayne Rooney got a few knocks on Saturday and missed training today. But he should be okay for tomorrow."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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