Wayne Rooney has been passed fit to play for England against Trinidad and Tobago this evening by independent medical advisors.

The Manchester United striker was today examined by professors Angus Wallace and Chris Moran, from the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham, ahead of the World Cup Group B clash in Nuremberg.

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson had already claimed yesterday that Rooney is "match-fit" and ready to return to action after six-and-a-half weeks out with a broken metatarsal.

But, following concerns expressed by the player's club, the Football Association sought the advice of Wallace and Martin - as agreed with United - and Rooney has now been given the green light to play some part in the game.

Eriksson is not expected to name the 20-year-old to start in Nuremberg but is
thinking of using him as a substitute.

The statement from the advisors said: "Wayne's recovery has been more rapid than expected over the past week, and this is due to the excellent care he has received since suffering the injury to his foot and because Wayne has worked so hard at his recovery."

"Due to his positive attitude and approach and the care he has received, Wayne has made a more rapid recovery than initially anticipated. The injury has healed and we are satisfied that he is as fit as he can be."

"It is our professional medical opinion that Wayne Rooney is now available to play in the World Cup."