Man United's Rooney to miss Anderlecht game
Britain Soccer Football - Manchester United v West Bromwich Albion - Premier League - Old Trafford - 1/4/17 Manchester United's Wayne Rooney prepares to come on as a substitute as Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho looks on Action Images via Reuters / Lee Smith Livepic
Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney will miss their Europa League quarter-final first leg against Anderlecht due to an ankle injury, manager Jose Mourinho said on Wednesday.
The England forward, who has sat out United's last two matches, did not travel to Brussels for the game on Thursday.
"He is not happy with his condition," Mourinho told reporters.
"He has bad feelings with his ankle and he’s not ready to play. Let’s see for the weekend, let’s see for next week. We don’t have many players and need everyone to try to be available."
United right back Antonio Valencia should be fit to return against the Belgian team after missing the last two games and Mourinho said his side would have to be at their best against dangerous opponents.
"They are a good team and have a certain way of playing, adapted to the qualities of their players," he said.
"They play well, press well and have talented players. I think we have to play at our best level.
"When a team arrives at this stage of the competition, everyone feels it’s possible (to win it). The motivation is high for everyone."
United are fifth in the Premier League table, one place outside the Champions League qualification spots, ahead of their match against leaders Chelsea at Old Trafford on Sunday.
"We still have two open doors and my feeling is that we are really going to fight in both competitions," Mourinho said.
"Honestly, I have a special feeling with the Europa League, it’s a competition we can win."
(Reporting by Ed Osmond; Editing by Toby Davis)