Rooney ready to return?

Wayne Rooney is set to make his comeback for Manchester United against Wigan - although he is set to start from the bench.

Rooney has not figured for the Reds since his brief substitute appearance against West Brom last month, since when he has signed a new five-year contract and been to the United States for conditioning work on his troublesome ankle injury.

The 25-year-old has not returned to full training yet but he has done a sufficient amount of work to be considered for a spot on the bench, with Sir Alex Ferguson confirming Rooney will definitely play some part in Wednesday's Champions League encounter with Rangers at Ibrox.

"I don't think he'll start tomorrow," Ferguson told radio station Key103.

"Maybe he will reach the bench. But he will certainly play on Wednesday against Rangers."

Ferguson also has doubts over Ryan Giggs and Rafael as United look to close the gap on Premier League leaders Chelsea.