United's manager aknowledged that he was being selfish with Wayne Rooney but dismissed criticism, signalling his opposition to Sven-Goran Eriksson's decision to include him in the squad.

Speaking on MANU-TV Ferguson tried to defend his position, by saying that Rooney is one of the most important units in his squad and needs to be protected from damaging his injury further.

"It's very important for the boy not to go to the World Cup half-fit or even three-quarters fit and not do himself or England justice. A lot of people might think I'm selfish in that respect," he added, "but Wayne is the most important player in the team at Manchester United. We have to ensure the boy is going to be fit at the start of the season for us. We all become selfish in that respect," Manchester United's manager said.

"England are selfish and Manchester United are selfish because they want the best for their operation," he said, trying to play down criticism from the England fans. "To go to a World Cup tournament you can't have anyone half-fit. That's happened before in the past. I think David Beckham was not fit when he went to the World Cup in 2002."

"What we've done with Wayne is assist him in every possible way," Sir Alex added. "He's tried the oxygen chamber; he hasn't enjoyed it but he tried it. They've not got absolutely conclusive evidence the oxygen chamber actually works but there's nothing against it. Everything is worth trying and that's what we're doing with Wayne.

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