Wayne Rooney overcame a knee problem to score the winning goal in the Carling Cup final, it has emerged.

The striker has been suffering pain in the joint and was only named as a substitute for Manchester United at Wembley yesterday (February 28th).

However, he replaced Michael Owen - who left the field with a hamstring strain after scoring United's first goal - and went on to head the winner in the second half.

It was only after the game that manager Alex Ferguson disclosed that Rooney has had the problem and he may miss England's friendly game against Egypt on Wednesday, March 3rd.

Noting that the player has been talking of having a sore knee for the past few weeks, the manager said: "I thought we would have to take him off at one stage."

Those suffering from a knee problem and not blessed with Rooney's youth may find that using a portable ultrasound device aids recovery.

Other footballers missing international games this week include Robbie Keane, who will miss Ireland's clash with Brazil after struggling through the Old Firm game between Rangers and Celtic yesterday.