Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson claims Wayne Rooney is to blame for the knee injury which looks set to keep him out of Saturday's trip to Wolves.
Ferguson has told his 28-goal leading scorer to take more responsibility for his own fitness after criticising his decision to play for England.
The United boss was annoyed that Rooney played almost the full 90 minutes of the midweek international friendly with Egypt despite reporting for England duty with a minor knee problem.
"I don't think he should have played," said Ferguson.
"It is his own enthusiasm that has caused it. His problem is that he can't say no.
"He told us on Sunday he was feeling his knee. Then all of a sudden people put an arm around his shoulder with England and he wants to play.
"(England boss) Fabio Capello has to pick his best team. A win was important so I don't blame him at all.
"I was more disappointed with Wayne. Why didn't he come off? I can't believe it."