Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has explained why he took off Wayne Rooney 20 minutes before the end of last night's 1-1 draw at Roma.

Ferguson said: "We took Wayne off with 20 minutes to go, which was perfect for him.

"He wanted a game. He didn't need it but he wanted it, and we were happy to let him play.

"We've got a big game on Sunday, it's a massive game. Manchester United and Liverpool derbies are always that way. The players who are at home are getting good training sessions in readiness."