ANOTHER FERGIE WARNING OVER ROONEY

Last updated : 16 May 2006 By Ed

Fergie on MUTV:

"To go to a World Cup tournament you can't have anyone half-fit.

"That's happened before in the past. I think David Beckham was not fit when he went to the World Cup (in 2002).

"What we've done with Wayne is assist him in every possible way.

"He's tried the oxygen chamber; he hasn't enjoyed it but he tried it.

"They've not got absolutely conclusive evidence the oxygen chamber actually works but there's nothing against it. Everything is worth trying and that's what we're doing with Wayne.

"He's in good hands. He's got the boot off and he's walking normally now which is good news.

"So you never know, but I certainly think it's very important for the boy not to go half-fit or even three-quarters fit and not do himself or England justice.

"A lot of people might think I'm selfish in that respect, but Wayne is the most important player in the team at Manchester United.

"We have to ensure the boy is going to be fit at the start of the season for us. We all become selfish in that respect.

"England are selfish and Manchester United are selfish because they want the best for their operation."

Beckham:

I was always so positive I was going to make the World Cup anyway. It never entered my head not to be fit for it, but Wayne has had his injury a month later than I did.

"If he's not right, then he has to look after himself. He can't take risks. He's got a huge future ahead of him, so he has to be careful.

"He shouldn't rush it. Everyone in our country wants him fit but he's got to think of himself as well."