Pellegrini: Manchester United Are Not Dependent On Wayne Rooney

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini says city rivals United will be dangerous on Sunday, with or without captain Wayne Rooney.

The England forward had been due to return to the United line-up after suspension in this weekend’s big derby at the Etihad.

But reports have emerged claiming he was seen limping at a sponsors’ event at Old Trafford on Monday and could be doubtful, although United have made no comment on the situation.

Rooney is the record goalscorer in Manchester derbies, having bagged 11 in 22 games for United.

But City boss Pellegrini denied that his team will see it as a massive plus if Rooney does end up missing out.

"I think Rooney is a very important player for Manchester United but I think that big teams never depend on one player,” he said.

“They have enough important, creative players to replace him."