United strike force ready to rumble

WAYNE Rooney is set to return from a groin injury for Manchester United’s crunch Old Trafford clash against rejuvenated Spurs tomorrow.

The Reds have won their last six matches, and yet more good news is on the way for manager David Moyes – striker Robin van Persie has resumed light training and is “not too far away” from a return to action.

The Dutch talisman has been sidelined since early December with groin and thigh injuries, but Moyes said the 31 year old, who has scored 10 goals for the club this season, is nearing a return to full fitness.

“Robin has started some light training and he might not be too far away,” Moyes said. “We’ve not had (van Persie and Rooney) as a partnership very often and we’re looking forward to getting them back together.”

United will take on a Tottenham side who have been revitalised under new manager Tim Sherwood following the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas.

Sherwood took temporary charge of Spurs, but made such a favourable impression in a short space of time that he was handed the hot seat on a full-time basis.

And he responded on Sunday by masterminding a 3-0 home victory over Stoke, a result which lifted the North London side into seventh place, just behind United on goal difference.

Meanwhile, Moyes has challenged Danny Welbeck to kick on in 2014.

The England forward came off the bench at Norwich last weekend to net his fourth goal in five appearances as United moved within striking distance of the top four once again.