Injured Rooney set to return against Tottenham

The Manchester United striker did not travel with the squad to face Norwich City after suffering a "recurrence of a groin strain" but is expected to be fit for the January 1 clash

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is expected to recover from a groin strain in time to face Tottenham on New Year's Day.

The England international missed Saturday's trip to Norwich City after suffering a recurrence of the groin problem that saw him sit out the League Cup quarter-final against Stoke City earlier this month.

However, the Premier League champions are confident that the 28-year-old forward will be in contention to make an immediate return when Tottenham head north to Old Trafford on Wednesday.

"Wayne Rooney didn't travel to Norwich due to the recurrence of a groin strain. He should be available for #mufc vs @SpursOfficial on 1 Jan."
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 28, 2013

Rooney, on target in the 3-2 win at Hull City on Boxing Day, is United's top scorer this season with 11 goals in all competitions.

Red Devils boss David Moyes will be desperate to have the former Everton attacker at his disposal against Tottenham as he is already without the services of striker Robin van Persie, who is expected to return next month from a thigh problem.