• World Cup

Rooney ankle injury described as 'minor'

ESPN Soccernet staff
June 24, 2010

Wayne Rooney joined the rest of his team-mates for some light gym work on Thursday after the FA described his ankle injury as 'minor'.

It had been feared the Manchester United man, whom Germany coach Joachim Low fears will 'explode' in the knockout stages, would sit out training to ensure he is fit for Sunday's second-round clash. Rooney was substituted in the 72nd minute of the 1-0 win over Slovenia after being seen to feel his ankle.

"I substituted Wayne because his ankle was not so good, he has some problems," coach Fabio Capello said. Asked about the extent of the injury, he replied: "I don't know. I have to wait for the doctor but I think it will be okay for the next game on Sunday."

England's team doctors made another assessment when the squad returned to Rustenburg, and Rooney appeared on the training pitch with the rest of the squad on Thursday. The 14 players that took part in Wednesday's win then departed to the gym for some light muscle work.

The only two players not to take any part in training were Michael Carrick and Aaron Lennon, both of whom are nursing minor ankle problems that are not expected to affect their involvement over the weekend.

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