Quote:The Italian burst onto the scene last year with an injury-time winner against Aston Villa on his debut to hand the Reds victory after back-to-back defeats to Liverpool and Fulham had threatened to derail United's title charge. Six days later he netted the winner at Sunderland to complete a fairytale week.

This season the Italy U21 international has been dogged by injuries, featuring just six times in the first team. Sir Alex said before Rooney's twisted ankle in Munich on Tuesday that Macheda should get further chances before the season is out. If Rooney is indeed sidelined then Macheda could well be fast-tracked into the first-team fold.

"Young Macheda’s had a terrible season with injuries," Sir Alex said in Munich. "But he made a return against Bolton last Saturday and we were absolutely delighted. He's one of the most exceptional young strikers I’ve seen in my time at United. He has every chance of taking part in big matches. His ability around the box for a young player is outstanding."