Rooney transfer shadows noon fixture

The Wayne Rooney transfer saga was the predictable topic of conversation ahead of today's Old Trafford clash between Manchester…

The Wayne Rooney transfer saga was the predictable topic of conversation ahead of today's Old Trafford clash between Manchester United and Everton.

Bobby Robson's surprise departure from Newcastle was another hot topic of debate with many suggesting the veteran manager's dismissal would appear to give Sir Alex Ferguson the edge in a bid to secure the England and Everton striker's signature before the transfer window closes tomorrow.

United have made a second bid, believed to be £25 million sterling (€37 million), and are awaiting a response from today's opponents.

Rooney, who handed in a transfer request on Friday, was not in the Everton side as he is still recovering from a foot injury.

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Manager David Moyes rang the changes despite the victory against West Brom with Steve Watson, David Weir and Tim Cahill all recalled to the team.

Striker Louis Saha returned to the United starting line-up after a knee problem and Darren Fletcher was also recalled. Ryan Giggs and Eric Djemba-Djemba were on the bench.

Man Utd v Everton

Man Utd:Howard, Gary Neville, Silvestre, O'Shea, Spector, Fletcher, Scholes, Kleberson, Ronaldo, Smith, Saha. Subs: Phil Neville, Giggs, Bellion, Carroll, Djemba-Djemba.

Everton: Martyn, Hibbert, Weir, Stubbs, Pistone, Osman, Watson, Carsley, Kilbane, Cahill, Bent. Subs: Wright, Campbell, Ferguson, McFadden, Naysmith.

Referee: D Gallagher (Oxfordshire)