Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists he was guided by the club's medical staff when fielding Wayne Rooney in last night's clash with Bayern Munich.

Ferguson is confident the 24-year-old will be fit for the Manchester derby at Eastlands on April 17, although he is unlikely to make Sunday's trip to Blackburn.

That assessment should at least ease the concerns of England manager Fabio Capello, who was at Old Trafford, with Ferguson adamant the correct procedures had been followed.

"I never force the medical staff into anything," said Ferguson.

"Their job is difficult. It is important they make the right decisions about players' fitness. They made the right decision. The medical staff did not see any problem."

Although Rooney did not add to his 34 goals, he was a central figure in United's flying start, that seemed certain to secure a semi-final berth.

His presence alone galvanised the Old Trafford crowd, which Ferguson also recognised as he went through his starting line-up.

"Wayne was keen to have a go and it did have an impact on the crowd," said the United boss.

"It gave them all a lift."