MUNICH.— Bayern Munich’s Pep Guardiola says he is sure Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney will face the holders in their Champions League soccer quarter-final, second leg tonight after the England striker trained yesterday.
The match kicks-off at 8:45pm
The 28-year-old Rooney missed United’s 4-0 win at Newcastle United on Saturday due to a toe injury, sparking fears that he could be forced to sit out tonight’s return leg at Munich’s Allianz Arena.

However, he took part in a light workout at United’s Carrington training centre yesterday morning prior to the squad’s departure for Germany, appearing to have no adverse reaction and to be in good spirits.

“Good training session with the lads ahead of the Bayern Munich match,” he wrote on his Facebook page.
“It’s a massive game for us against a top side but we’ll be going in confident and looking to progress into the semi-finals.”

Patrice Evra (knee), Ryan Giggs (groin) and Ashley Young (hand) also took part despite injury concerns.
Bayern coach Guardiola is positive Rooney will play against the European champions with the Munich tie delicately poised after last Tuesday’s 1-1 draw in the first leg at Manchester’s Old Trafford.

“He will play, I am 100 percent sure and I am willing to bet a large glass of beer on it,” the Spaniard quipped during yesterday’s press conference in Munich.“This is one of the best players I’ve seen play and the big players do not want to miss this type of game.”

Rooney’s presence in Munich will be a key factor for United with Netherlands forward Robin van Persie sidelined with a sprained knee and Juan Mata cup-tied.
Bayern have a few concerns of their own with Germany star Bastian Schweinsteiger and Spain’s Javi Martinez both suspended, while attacking midfielder Thiago Alcantara is injured. Winless in their last three matches, the Bavarian giants suffered their first Bundesliga defeat in 18 months when they were beaten 1-0 at Augsburg on Saturday.

Having taken charge in June, Guardiola admits failing to reach the Champions League’s semi-finals with a defeat to Manchester United would be a mistake on his behalf.

European champions Bayern have already picked up three titles in Guardiola’s nine months in charge, including securing the Bundesliga title with a record seven games to spare and remain 20 points clear in the table. “If we don’t reach the semi-finals, that is a big mistake by the coach,” he said referring to himself. —AFP.

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