Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney looks set to make a swift return to action.

The England striker has been out of action since fracturing a bone in his left foot during United's goalless draw with Reading on the opening day of the Premier League season.

He was not considered for England's Euro 2008 qualifiers against Israel and Russia and was expected to be sidelined for a further month.

But reports now suggest he could be back as early as this weekend after a new x-ray showed the healing process was ahead of schedule.

There is a chance Rooney could be on the bench for United's clash with former club Everton on Saturday, or their Champions League opener against Sporting Lisbon next Wednesday.

But a more realistic target could be the crucial game against Chelsea on September 23rd.

United have been short of goals in Rooney's absence, especially as Cristiano Ronaldo has also had to serve a three-match suspension.