Manchester United's Rooney to miss clash with Arsenal; likely out for season

Captain Wayne Rooney will miss Manchester United's encounter with Arsenal after failing to overcome a thigh injury.

Rooney, who will be joined by an ailing Luke Shaw on the sidelines, suffered the injury during United's 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace and likely won't play again this season, according to manager Louis van Gaal.

"The situation is not positive for us, they cannot play, neither of them," Van Gaal told reporters Friday. "It is a short-term thing. We have only one match to play, so I think it will be difficult for them to play again this season."

It's a tough blow for United ahead of an important match that could determine if the team qualify automatically for the Champions League or if they will have to compete in a playoff to advance to the lucrative tournament.

United enter the match two points behind Arsenal, who have a game in-hand.

If he's unable to return, Rooney finishes the season with 12 goals and five assists during his 32 Premier League appearances.