Manchester United's Rooney targets April return from knee injury

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has revealed that he could be back in action next month after a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a knee injury that's kept him out since early February.

"Everything is going as planned," Rooney told reporters, courtesy of United's official website. "Rehab is going well but, hopefully, it won't be too long.

"I don't know (when I will return). Obviously, I will miss the international games but, hopefully, it won't be too long. It's not too bad but obviously it's (a case of) just being a bit cautious. It's difficult to push back. If I tried to push it to be involved now, it could cause more damage. So, being cautious, after the international break is more realistic."

Rooney's latest prognosis lines up in time with the original timeline provided after he injured ligaments in his knee against Sunderland on Feb. 13. A return in mid-April could see Rooney suit-up for Premier League matches against Tottenham (April 10) or Aston Villa (April 16).

The England international hopes his return affords him enough time to compete in matches with United as the season winds down. Rooney is also optimistic a return next month will prepare him for his role with the national team ahead of the European Championship in June.

"I am hoping that, if I am back when I am expected to be back, depending on the two cups we are in, then there could be over 10 games left plus the England games," Rooney added.

"I was saying before it has been eight games that I have missed. I didn't realise it was that many so it's obviously really frustrating. Myself, the manager, and the doctor felt it was best for me to get a bit of rest and that is why I went away. That will do me good in the coming weeks."