Rooney ‘troubles worsen as Jose delivers new Man Utd snub’

Rooney and Young: Shunning China interest

Wayne Rooney will continue to be overlooked by Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho for Saturday’s clash with Arsenal, according to reports.

The United skipper was expected to make his return to the United attack against the Gunners with Zlatan Ibrahimovic suspended after he collected a fifth yellow card of the season against Swansea last time out.

We even wrote about how the Swede’s absence could be to Rooney’s benefit in our Monday Verdict after the Swansea clash.

However, the Daily Mirror claims Marcus Rashford is Mourinho’s preferred option to play up front against Arsenal in Saturday lunchtime’s clash, leaving Rooney kicking his heels on the bench once again.

News that he faces a prolonged spell on the bench will complete what has been a bad week for the player, who many feel is now in serious decline. On Wednesday, the United and England captain was allegedly pictured drunk in The Sun – actions for which he has since issued this apology.

Rooney has started just once in the last six Premier League games for United and now faces more disappointment with Mourinho ready to opt for pace and youth up front.

And news of his likely omission against Arsenal will further increase doubts about his long-term future at the club, with reports recently suggesting he will be forced out of Old Trafford by Mourinho.

As well as Ibrahimovic, Mourinho will also likely be without Antonio Valencia, Eric Bailly, Chris Smalling and potentially Luke Shaw and Marouane Fellaini.