Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that he is 'hopeful' that Wayne Rooney is close to top form ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby.

The 27-year-old has been in and out of United's starting lineup this season due to injury and illness but after Rooney played the full 90 minutes in United's 1-0 defeat to CFR Cluj, Ferguson believes that the England striker will continue to improve in United's clash with Manchester City on Sunday.

Ferguson told reporters: "Wayne has another 90 minutes under his belt and hopefully by Sunday he is in real top form.

"He is approaching that now but Sunday will be a different kettle of fish altogether."

Rooney has scored five goals in 16 appearances for United this season.