Mourinho won't let emotion cloud Rooney decision

Manchester - Jose Mourinho won't let his heart rule his head as the Manchester United manager ponders handing Wayne Rooney a start in the League Cup Final against Southampton on Sunday.

Rooney, 31, announced on Thursday that he will remain at Old Trafford for the rest of the season after turning down lucrative offers from Chinese Super League clubs.

In response, Mourinho confirmed Rooney would be involved at Wembley for what could prove to be his final appearance at the famous stadium for United.

Rooney has only started three games since before Christmas, all of them in the FA or League Cup, and played just 45 minutes in February due to injury.

Related - Mourinho: Rooney will be 'involved' in EFL Cup final; Mkhitaryan ruled out

Mourinho has not ruled out naming his club captain in his starting line-up although he will not let sentiment cloud his decision.

"Only the best 11 players," said Mourinho of his selection philosophy. "We win all together.

"It doesn't matter if you play or didn't play, if you play a lot or don't play much. I go for the best possible team.

"I have to make a decision. You know that we normally play two different systems. Sometimes we play with two midfield players and a 'number 10' if you want to call it that.

"He is an option for me. A final is a special match and he's an option for me."

The absence of in-form Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who picked up an injury in the midweek Europa League victory at Saint-Etienne, has improved Rooney's chances of adding to the League Cups he won with United in 2006 and 2010.

Mourinho, meanwhile, can join legendary managers Alex Ferguson and Brian Clough in winning the League Cup for a record fourth time if he is successful against Southampton.