Wayne Rooney's absence would be a major boost for Roberto Martinez as Everton seeks to maintain its record against Manchester United.
Everton manager Roberto Martinez is a keen admirer of Wayne Rooney but hopes he falls short in his bid to be fit for Manchester United's visit on Saturday.
Rooney missed England's final two Euro 2016 qualifiers against Estonia and Lithuania after receiving a knock to the ankle in United's Premier League defeat to Arsenal at the start of the month.
The United and England skipper remains doubtful for this weekend's trip to his former club as United seeks to arrest a poor run of form at Goodison Park.