Wayne Rooney’s participation in Manchester United’s home game against Liverpool is in doubt because of a possible hamstring injury that meant he was not with the rest of Louis van Gaal’s squad when they checked into the team hotel on Friday.

Rooney is understood to have felt tightness in the back of a leg during United’s last training session. He was then conspicuous by his absence when the squad arrived for their overnight stay at the Lowry Hotel in Salford.

United would not explain his absence but there were unconfirmed reports that the England captain would undergo a fitness test on Saturday. The game is at 5.30 that evening.

If United’s fears are confirmed, Rooney’s involvement in United’s Champions League tie against PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday will also be in doubt. Marouane Fellaini is one option and United also have Anthony Martial, their new £36m signing, but Van Gaal has talked about easing the teenager in gently.