Manchester United expect Wayne Rooney to back in action in time for their Premier League meeting with Fulham on December 3.

The England striker has been sidelined since injuring his ankle in a freak training ground incident two weeks ago.

Rooney missed England's dismal 3-2 defeat by Croatia on Wednesday which put paid to their chances of qualifying for Euro 2008.

But despite stories suggesting he has already returned to full training two weeks ahead of schedule, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is adamant Rooney won't return before next month.

"Wayne did some light running yesterday and is doing well," he revealed. "He won't be fit for the match against Bolton tomorrow or Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday but he should be fine for Fulham."