Van Nistelrooy staying at United says Queiroz

Manchester United striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy will not be leaving Old Trafford, assistant manager Carlos Queiroz said yesterday.

Van Nistelrooy's omission from the starting line-up for the past three games has led to speculation the Dutch international could leave in the close season after five years leading the United line.

Queiroz insisted the 29-year-old still has a key role to play at United.

"Ruud is a crucial player for our goals and our ambitions," Queiroz told reporters.

"He is part of our team and part of our needs and his contribution, starting the game or during the game, is always crucial to us. He is part of our plan - the short, medium and long-term.

"You can't be surprised that 50 teams in the world want Ruud. There is only one team that does not need to want Ruud and that is Manchester United because we have him."

Queiroz believes Van Nistelrooy, joint top scorer in the Premier League, is happy at Old Trafford where he has been offered reassurances about his importance to the club.

Queiroz believes England striker Wayne Rooney should play in United's remaining 10 games as they look to secure second place behind champions-elect Chelsea.

"There are 30 points in front of us and we need Rooney to win those 30 points," Queiroz said.

United defender Wes Brown will miss today's game at relegation-threatened West Bromwich Albion, who are 17th in the 20-strong table, with a slight groin injury.