Fit-again Rooney could make United comeback against Wigan

Wayne Rooney could make his first Manchester United appearance today since last month's saga over his new contract.

The 25-year-old England forward, who has struggled with an ankle injury, has not played since 16 October and has recently returned from a week of training in the United States.

"Wayne's done a week of intense (fitness] work so he's not done a lot of football work," said manager Sir Alex Ferguson on the eve of the Premier League home match against Wigan Athletic. "We need to assess that a little more closely. He could make the bench but I don't think he'll start. But he will certainly play on Wednesday against Rangers (in the Champions League]."

Rooney could face a mixed reception when he does finally return to Old Trafford with some fans delighted he agreed to stay and sign a five-year deal and others still smarting from his criticism of the club and his initial desire to leave.

Ferguson said defenders Rio Ferdinand and Chris Smalling were being assessed after picking up groin strains on midweek England duty. Winger Nani faces a late fitness test after only arriving back in Manchester yesterday from his exploits with Portugal while defender Rafael has a dead leg and is doubtful, and Ryan Giggs would not be rushed back from his hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, Arsenal's Jack Wilshere yesterday received a caution for common assault following a street brawl. The 18-year-old England midfielder was arrested and bailed following the incident in Kensington High Street, London, in the early hours of 29 August this year.

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: "An 18-year-old male has attended a west London police station where he received a caution for common assault."

Two people needed hospital treatment after the brawl. A man received facial injuries and a woman suffered a broken arm. Wilshere's spokesman later released a statement which read: "During a night out with friends, Jack intervened as a peacemaker in an incident to protect a friend. The police have accepted that Jack's involvement was such that it could be dealt with by way of a caution. No further comment will be made as police investigations and proceedings are ongoing and Jack may well be called as a witness."