Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will use today's clash with Blackburn Rovers as a Champions League dress rehearsal for Wayne Rooney.

United have Rooney back fit at just the right time with today's game followed by the trip to Inter Milan for Tuesday's crucial Champions League tie. And then next Sunday it is the Carling Cup final against Spurs.

Rooney made his first appearance in a month in the 3-0 win over Fulham on Wednesday after recovering from a hamstring injury - and scored with his first touch.

Fergie added: "Rooney will start against Blackburn. He's been training really well and showed his sharpness is there.

"Blackburn will tell us more about his fitness over 90 minutes. If he is OK, no question he gives us options for Tuesday."