Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits Wayne Rooney's hamstring injury may drag on. United's 100% start to the Barclays Premier League season came to an end at Stoke City in Rooney's absence and the 25-year-old had earlier 'Tweeted' that he was "gutted" he had been unable to play, but hoped he would be fit to feature in the Champions League clash with Basle at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

However, when asked about Rooney's condition after the match at the Britannia Stadium, Ferguson told MUTV: "It is difficult to say. It's a hamstring. It is not a serious one, it is a mild one.

"I don't think he will be available for next week. It will be more than a week out."